Mark Steele, age 76 of Grand Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 11, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents John and Grace Steele of Fremont, MI and his older brother, Duncan Steele, of Oakland, CA. Mark is survived by his daughter, Cristina (Kevin) Stauffer, and her mother, Linda Steele; granddaughters, Ava and Madeleine of Grand Rapids, MI; and younger brother Tim Steele of Fremont, MI. Mark was educated as a graphic artist at the American Academy of Art in Chicago, IL and as a painter at Northern Michigan University in Marquette, MI before launching his career as a designer/illustrator. He worked in the advertising industry in the Grand Rapids area for many years. Mark was passionate about fly fishing and river conservation, hunting, hiking, and observing nature’s beauty. Mark was also an accomplished watercolor artist and an avid reader. His retirement years were spent quietly walking, fishing, painting, drawing, reading, and enjoying his granddaughters whom he loved with all his heart. Mark was a die-hard Michigan football fan and enjoyed taking trips to the Big House with his daughter, Cristina. Their trip to the Rose Bowl together was a treasured memory which he reminisced about often. He was truly one of a kind. Mark was fun, generous, had a great sense of humor, an incredible sweet tooth and most of all, was so full of love for those he held near and dear – do not let his tough exterior fool you. He will be deeply missed by his friends and family. A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, January 20th from 3-5pm at Watermark Country Club, 1600 Galbraith Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Memorial contributions may be made to Anglers of the Au Sable, https://www.ausableanglers.org/ or the Kent District Library, https://kdl.org/donate/, 814 W River Center Dr NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321.
One Response
When I would call Mark, even if he was at work, he would answer, ” this is the Big Trout speaking, how can I help you Catfish?” I could always hear that twinkle in his eyes, even on the phone.
Being artists, in different mediums, our connection went beyond the ordinary. My life was enriched in so many ways because he was my friend. When I drive by a river I always remember fly fishing with Mark. When I view fine art, I’m always reminded of his immense talent. I really miss knowing he’s around, and I’m eternally grateful for those gifts he left us. Thank you Big Trout.