Richard G. Steele

MORRIS—Richard G. Steele “Dick” 81,  Monday, May 22, 2017 “The Voice of Grundy County” peacefully passed from this life at Morris Hospital.
He was surrounded by his loving family following a courageous battle with multiple failing conditions. Born in the town he calls home and was a lifelong proud Morris resident. He retired from WCSJ/WJDK Radio after leaving a legacy that this community will not soon forget. Every Sunday was a household staple of the Richard Steele Morning Radio Show. In addition to the regularly broadcast show, his community involvement knew no bounds. It was rare that you didn’t hear him announcing almost every community or sporting event throughout his long and rewarding career. He never sought accolades but throughout his lifetime he had been recognized for his inspiring community involvement.  Dick was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame for News Media, he was also honored and inducted into the Illinois Department on Aging 2008 Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame, named Grundy County Senior Citizen Hall of Fame, named the 1994 and 2003 Morris Redskin Fan of the Year and in 2008-09, he received the Morris Lions Club Citizen of the Year award.
He was a member of the Grundy County Board, a member of the Morris Township Board, and a member of the Justice Assistance Board. Dick loved life, loved his family, loved his work, and loved his community. He especially enjoyed announcing the Morris Corn Festival Parade and being the Master of Ceremonies of the Old Timers Baseball Association Banquet. He was also named 1984 Coal Valley Old Timer's Baseball Club Hall of Fame inductee. This community tribute certainly made him smile when he received it on May 28, 1999 when it was proclaimed "Dick Steele Day" in recognition of his many achievements and on behalf of the citizens of Morris.  One of Dick’s favorite moments in life was watching his beloved Chicago Cubs win The World Series. If Dick Steele could leave you with one final thought it would be “keep sporting, keep fit”.
Preceded by his loving wife, Joyce E. (nee Anderson) Steele (2008). His parents. Donald and Mary (nee Harney) Steele. His feline companion of 22 years, Snowy.
Survived by three daughters, Vicki (Bob) Surman of Morris, Colleen (Mike) Frey of Riverside, CA and Julie (Randy Schmitt) Darin of Yorkville. Six grandchildren, Nick (Tonya) Vidito, Tony (Christin) Darin, Jake(Carrie) Vidito, Matt (Jade) Warren, Katie (Steve) Strang  and Luke (Amanda) Vidito. Seven great grandchildren. Two sisters, Dona (Russ) Greiff of Morris, and Becky Black of Bourbonnais. One brother, Chuck (Judy) Steele of Yorkville.  Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins and a community that loved him so much also survive.
A Celebration of Life for Richard “Dick” Steele will be held Saturday June 3, 2017 at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 1201 W. Route 6 at Deerpath Dr., Morris at 1 p.m. As it was Dick’s request cremation rites have been accorded. Final interment will take place next to his beloved wife at Evergreen Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday morning  from 9 a.m. until time of services at 1 p.m.  For information please call (815) 942-5040 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com