Steele A. Taylor

Steele Anderson Taylor of Grand Rapids passed away Friday, April 27, 2018, at the age of 93.  Steele was born on January 14, 1925 in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, to the late James and Clara Taylor.  He will be lovingly remembered by the love of his life, Mary Taylor, his wife of 37 years.  He is also survived by Mary’s children Anne (Thomas) Rothwell, Susan (Archibald) McClure, and Jane Kingsley.  Also by his children Louise (Robert) Norlin, Megan (David) Harding, daughter-in-law Mindy Wolf, 10 grandchildren and three great grandchildren.  Steele was preceded in death by his first wife, Joan, and his son Steele Jr.

Steele’s world was full of compassion for others and his community.  He was active in numerous leadership roles with philanthropic and nonprofit organizations including, D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s, Grand Rapids Community Foundation, Grand Rapids Public Museum and Foundation, Mary Free Bed, Senior Neighbors and World Affairs Council.  He was also involved with the Aquinas Emeritus Board, Rotary Club of Grand Rapids and was appointed to the Art and Museum Commission of Grand Rapids. 

An avid outdoorsman, Steele loved nature and was passionate about outdoor sports including golf, tennis and fly fishing.  Northern Michigan held a special place in his heart and he always looked forward to being at his cottage in Charlevoix where he enjoyed working in his gardens.  Steele and Mary relished their world travels and their winters on the island of Kauai. 

After graduating from Loomis Chaffee School and Williams College, he spent two years in the United States Navy before relocating to Grand Rapids.  Prior to serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of Grand Rapids Steel and Supply, Steele was with Doehler-Jarvis, Inc.

Steele will be remembered for his keen sense of humor and his love for his family and friends.  He left his mark in our community and helped shape the future of Grand Rapids.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 9, at 11 a.m., at Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Steele may be made to the D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s, Grand Rapids Community Foundation, Grand Rapids Public Museum and Foundation, and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital.

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