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Michael Steele Obituary
1952-2020
Michael Steele passed away January 3, 2020 at home in Scottsdale, Arizona after a long illness. He was born in Toledo, Ohio on July 3, 1952. He graduated from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI and finished his Masters degree at Bowling Green University in Bowling Green, OH. He was married to Evangeline Robinson for 38 years.
He had a successful corporate career working with various companies such as The Coca-Cola Company, Brown Williamson, The Stroh Brewery and others. Michael worked diligently to hone his skills as a marketing expert and utilized much of his time understanding the marketing and advertising industry as he had garnered an abundance of experience in his domestic and international marketing positions with The Coca-Cola Company and others. However, that was not enough. He followed his dream of operating his own agency.
Advantage Communications, Inc. an Advertising, Marketing and Public Relations agency was launched in 2000 and based in Little Rock, Arkansas. The agency garnered significant success from local, regional and national clients. As President/CEO Michael led the agency to capture clients such as General Motors, FBI, University of Arkansas, Hope Credit Union and more. He was an amazing man with a knack to think outside the box, stay positive, enjoy people and live a good life.
He had a passion for family, reading, western movies, and golf.
Michael is survived by the family he cherished, Evangeline and sons Michael Frank, Theo, brothers, Jeff, Jenara, Bobby (Marita), Tracy (Cassandra); sisters Jewelene Kelly, Betty Jo Wilson; aunt Mary Byrd; sisters-in-law Marcelean Grady (John), Angela Beck (Maurice), Renata Terry and many nieces and nephews.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Steele
Debra Hughes
August 12, 2020
I remember Michael in Scott high school didn’t know him personally but his wife I saw her by the locker at school I thought she was absolutely beautiful I name my first daughter after her. Rip
Dr. Lawremce Drake
February 9, 2020
So sorry to hear of Mike's passing. He was a respected colleague of not only the Coca-Cola family but was a presence in all of the circles he traveled. He was always quick to greet you with a warm smile, firm handshake and a kind word. We are all better for having met Mike.
Valerie Kuchulis
January 20, 2020
To Michael's family: Michael was a good man to us and will remember him fondly. Too young. May his memory be eternal.
Machelle Steward-Brown
January 17, 2020
Sending condolences to Tracy Steele and the family of Mike Steele.
Heartfelt sympathy for your loss.
The Brown Family
Ruby & Ronald Brown
Kevin Dedner
January 16, 2020
Evanne- I was sadden to learn of Mike's transition. I remember the very first time I met him. He shared his vision of building Arkansas's first black owed full service PR firm. Not only did he do that, he created a whole new business of marketing in Arkansas. I didn't have the joy of knowing him before that chapter of his life. But, I am sure his contributions were as significant. All of us are better for having known Mike. You, Tracy, and your entire family have my heart felt sympathy. Bless you, -Kevin Dedner.
January 15, 2020
Dear Evanne, Mike was like another brother to me and my brother Bob. We were brought together through business and ended up as close and trusting friends. Although we had not seen each other in some time, his big smile and easy presence will nevertheless be missed. May God bless and comfort you and Michael in this time of loss.
Frank Williams
January 14, 2020
My deepest and heart felt sympathy goes out to the Steele family. Although our paths have not cross in many years. Mike remains an intricate part of my early life at Western. He embraced me as a player and big brother, for which I will always cherish. Make he rest in peace.
SL Sales, Jr.
Marcia Williams
January 14, 2020
Dear Evanne,
I was so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
Jethro Bailey
January 14, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Eleanor Gantt
January 13, 2020
My sincere condolences to the entire family. Mike was truly a great man with a huge heart. Cherish his legacy and find comfort in precious memories.
Peggy Autry
January 13, 2020
My heartfelt condolences to the family.
Lynda Lehing
January 13, 2020
My thoughts and prayers to the Steele family.
Debra Davis
January 12, 2020
My thoughts and prays go out to the entire Steele family! He was a great man and will truly be missed!May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow!
January 12, 2020
I pray for peace and comfort during your time of sorry! My prays go out to the entire Steele family! He was a great man and will truly be missed! May God continue to bless you and your family in this time of sorrow!
Ingrid Saunders Jones
January 12, 2020
Sincere condolences to the entire family. Michael was a valued member of the Coca-Cola family and respected by all who knew him.
Marcia Gardner
January 12, 2020
My deepest condolences to the Steele family. As a high school friend of brother Frank, i pray that you all find comfort in your many memories. May God bless you all
Charles Bailey, M.D.
January 12, 2020
May you find peace and comfort knowing that Michael is lovingly resting in the arms of his Heavenly Father. We, Sharon and I, remember him as a good friend and as a favorite patient. He was kind and gentle and he loved his family. After the close of the office we lost contact but he never lost our love and respect.
Gwendolyn Adams
January 11, 2020
My sincere condolences to the Steele family.
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