Joseph Harley Steele

Joseph Harley Steele, 91 years old, passed away at 3:26 a.m. on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Joe was born on April 22, 1934 in Roann, IN to the late Elmer and Elsie Steele. On August 10, 1999, Joe and the former Ellouise (Howard) Hummer were united in marriage.
Joe is survived by his loving wife, Ellouise and her four children; Randy (Suzanne) Hummer of South Bend, Lori (Brent) Chamberlin of South Bend, Sherri (Vic) Solmos of North Liberty, and Rick (Tabatha) Hummer of Walkerton; eight grandchildren, Lindsey (Andy) Tropp, Bryce (Allie) Hummer, Preston (Jenny) Krause, Zachary (Makenzie) Krause, Brody (Cayla) Solmos, Brock (Jordan) Solmos, Azaryah Hummer and Samson Hummer; and seven great grandchildren. Joe is also survived by his two brothers, Bill (Becky) Steele and Richard (Diane) Steele, both of North Manchester, IN. He was preceded in death by his first wife of 45 years, Sue Ann; two brothers, Robert (Helen) Steele and Raymond (Marcia) Steele; and three sisters, Dorothy Gray, Betty (Lawrence) Bonowitz and Marriett (Robert) Sanders.
Joe was a 1953 graduate of Roann High School and retired from General Tire in the tool and die department. Joe proudly served his country with the United States Army. He loved watching Notre Dame Football and Cubs baseball games and liked to tell stories about his time pitching during his own baseball games growing up and in the Army. Joe was an avid clock enthusiast who enjoyed collecting, fixing, and winding his perfectly timed clocks. It was quite a sight to see and hear. He was a great listener who had a knack for seeing the best in people. He loved being around family, gave the best warm hugs, and was never shy with his "I love you's." Joe was a simple man to many people but make no mistake that was his most endearing quality. He was simply consistent, simply kind, simply loving. He will simply be missed.
A service celebrating the life of Joseph Steele will be held, time and day to be determined. Palmer Funeral Home-North Liberty Chapel is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Joseph Steele may be donated to First Baptist Church, 407 Elm Street, North Liberty, IN 46554. Online condolences may be offered to Joe's family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
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