STEELE, FRANK RUSSEL (BUD) - Beloved husband of Elizabeth Jean Steele (Currie). Born in Saint John September 7, 1924, son of Dorothy Ellen (Furlong) Steele and Arthur McLean Steele, Bud grew up in the South End at a time when the community was busy and vibrant attending Victoria School and graduating from Saint John High School. He was active in Boy Scouts achieving the distinction of King Scout. Bud served in the R.C.A.F. 428 Bomber Squadron (Ghosts) and was stationed in England from 1942-1946. Bud and Beth were married 64 years and together for 71 years. They have three children, Elizabeth Meier (Paul) in Halifax, Ellen Siekierski (Bill) in Ottawa and Peter Steele (Kathleen) in Truro. He is survived by brother Richard Steele in Moncton, predeceased by brother William (Joan) from Peterborough. Bud was blessed with five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. One of the greatest gifts he gave to his children and grandchildren was the example he set as a man, a father and a husband. As a couple they were an inspiration and joy to all of their family. Most of Bud's working life was spent managing McLaughlin Tire in Saint John followed by Firestone Tire in Fredericton and he retired early at 62. He led a full and active life for the next 25 years. Bud had been athletic in his youth playing basketball, badminton and tennis, curling and golfing during his working years then continued into retirement becoming heavily involved in lawn bowling, playing, coaching and umpiring. He held both provincial and national umpire qualifications. Bud was an ardent gym devotee working out 2 or 3 times a week until he was 86 years old. He was also Vice-President and Treasurer of his condo association. Bud enjoyed his retirement years taking the opportunity for hobbies – wine-making, photography and anything involving technology at which he was particularly adept. He was a self-taught and clever investor who actively traded in the stock market using the internet long before his children. He always had the newest of gadgets, cameras, computers, and televisions. In later years Bud had lots of fun with his Old Rascal pals who met every Monday for lunch, monthly for breakfast and other social times together. They have kept a log of their “meetings” and it is a delight to read. Bud has been the best of husbands, the finest of fathers, a man of sterling qualities. He had the wonderful ability to put himself into his childrens' shoes and understand their feelings. He will be sorely missed. The family wishes to express their appreciation to Dr. Carmen Stuart, a wonderful and caring physician. Their thanks also go to the group of Extramural nurses who gave such devoted care to Bud over the past eight months.
A service of remembrance for family and friends will be held Sunday, October 9 at 2:00 PM in the J. A. McAdam Memorial Chapel on York St. Fredericton with a reception to follow. For those who wish, remembrances may be made in Bud's memory to the Extramural Hospital Program in Fredericton.