DARREN GERALD STEELE

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DARREN GERALD STEELE 1964 - 2006 It is with profound sadness that the family of Darren Gerald Steele, announce his tragic passing June 2, 2006, in Colorado Springs. Darren leaves to mourn his sons, Seth and Benjamin, whom he loved dearly, as well as his former wife Peggy, all of Winnipeg. He leaves behind his brothers, Shannon Steele, Christopher Redd (Lori) and family of Winnipeg, and Shane Steele (Julie) and family of Montana. Darren also leaves behind his step-father Michael Steele, of Thorne Bay, Alaska, as well as many relatives and friends. Darren was predeceased by his mother in 1993 and his biological father in 2004. Darren was born May 26, 1964, in Winnipeg. His formative years were spent in and around Winnipeg, as well as the Ellensburg, WA area. The family returned to Manitoba in the early part of 1980 and took up permanent residence in the Teulon area. Darren joined the Canadian Forces as an Artillery Officer in March of 1989. After initial training in Chilliwack, BC and St Jean sur Richelieu, QC, he was posted to Gagetown, NB, Valcartier, QC, and Shilo, MB. In January of 2000, Darren changed professions and became a Public Affairs Officer for the Canadian Forces, beginning a new life in Ottawa, a city he loved. Darren served Canada proudly, with tours in Bosnia and Afghanistan, and at the time of his death, was working in Colorado Springs as Deputy Director of NORAD Public Affairs. Darren loved sports and was an avid rugby enthusiast. It was a rare treat to have him officiate at one of Seth's games last summer during the playoffs. He also enjoyed squash and getting out on the green for a round of golf. He took voice lessons while in Ottawa and joined a choir. His real love was to spend time with his children and he did so at every opportunity, sometimes flying them to his place, or joining them in Winnipeg. He was an outstanding man, who touched the lives of many. He will never be forgotten. At his request, Darren was cremated. A military service was held at St Charles Parish in Ottawa, June 15, with Captain Gabriel Legault presiding. A family service is being planned for Winnipeg. The family would like to thank Capt. Jason Proulx of Colorado Springs, PO1 Heidi Sorrell of Winnipeg, and all the other military members working behind the scenes who assisted them during such a difficult period. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Manitoba Lung Association. All endings are beginnings, we just don't know it at the time.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 16, 2006