Robert S. “Bob” Steele

Felts Mills — Robert S. “Bob” Steele, 73, of Felts Mills, passed away on October 16, 2025, at the Carthage Area Hospital.

He was born on January 4, 1952, in Frostburg, Maryland, the son of Garvin and Matilda (Jenkins) Steele. Bob graduated from Valley High School in Lonaconing, Maryland, in 1970. He married Susan Kyle on June 26, 1971, together they had four children..

Bob held various jobs in Maryland before entering the United States Army in March 1981. He proudly served his country until his honorable discharge from Fort Drum as Sergeant First Class in April 2001.He received many awards throughout his career, including the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Army Good Conduct Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Rifle Bar, and the Driver and Mechanic Badge.

Following his military service, Bob settled in Felts Mills, New York. He was employed by Fabco and Stafford Machinery before retiring. Robert enjoyed woodworking, hunting, and fishing.

Among his survivors are his three sons: Robert “Andy” Steele of Barton, Maryland; Anthony Steele of Lonaconing, Maryland; and Steven Steele and his wife Anna of Scottsville, New York; his daughter, Mary Japson, and her husband Jim of Victor, New York; three grandchildren, Samuel, Isabella and Abigail; his brother, Garvin Steele Jr. of Glen Burnie, Maryland; and two sisters, Sonja K. Thompson of Millerville, New Jersey, and Pamela Luellen of Lonaconing, Maryland; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents and beloved wife Susan he was predeceased by his brother, James Steele.

Calling hours will be held 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, October 24th at the Bruce Funeral Home 131 Maple St., Black River.

 A funeral service will be held 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 25th at the funeral home.  Burial with military honors will immediately follow in Felts Mills Cemetery.

Online condolences may be left at www.brucefh.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.