James Martin Steele

James M. Steele, 41, of St. Paul, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at his home on the river.

Family will greet friends from 2:00 P.M. - 4:00 P.M. on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at Jacobsen-Greenway-Dietz Funeral Home in St. Paul. A Celebration of his life will follow at 4:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family would encourage donations to the animal advocacy group of your choice.

James was born on August 2, 1983, to Tonia (McCord) and Doug Friedrichsen in St. Paul, Nebraska.  Tonia later met Stanley Steele who soon after adopted James as his own and has been “Dad” ever since.  James had the pleasure of being surrounded by many friends and family, immediate and extended.

James grew up in Palmer and Grand Island, and lastly St. Paul where he went to school and called home.

He was affectionally known by his nieces as “Uncle Snacks,” who was always present for any special occasions with smiles and gifts.  James had a big heart and was always concerned for others, especially his furry companions.  James always had dogs and loved them as his children.  He absolutely loved the outdoors whether it was hunting, watching, or interacting with wildlife.  Other hobbies included golfing where he continued to strive to play the game better, as he drove his wreck of a golf cart.  Most of all, James loved his home on the Loup River, north of St. Paul, a home he almost lost in the Spencer Dam flood.  He sent numerous photos of sunrises and sunsets from his windows.

James had many jobs but in most recent years, he drove truck (delivering distilled grains), which he loved and enjoyed the solitude of.

Those left to cherish his memory include his dad, Stanley  & (Janet Knisley) of Grand Island; brother and sister-in-law, Eric and Hannah Steele of Grand Island; sisters, Andrea Steele of Grand Island, and Dakota DesLaurier of Grand Island; nieces, Elli Kollins Steele, Tayva Steele, Harper DesLaurier, and Harlow Proctor; grandmothers, Karen McCord of St. Paul, and AnnaBelle Steele of Fullerton; grandfather, Francis "Red" Steele of Fullerton; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.  He will be missed by all who knew him!

James was preceded in death by his mother, Tonia Marie Steele; grandmother, Bonnie Friedrichsen; grandfather, Fritz McCord; great-grandparents, Ellis and Florence Nelson; and uncle, Troy McCord.