It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Wayne Joseph Steele, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Wayne peacefully departed on November 26, 2023, at the age of 76.
Wayne was born to Sophie and Llewlyn Steele in Trinity Bay, Newfoundland, on July 19, 1947. His childhood was filled with the mesmerizing sight of his Uncle Charlie crafting boats for local fishermen. After graduating high school, Wayne spent four transformative years at the Fisheries College in St. John’s, Newfoundland, specializing in Electronics and Communications.
His life took a beautiful turn when he met Patricia, the love of his life. They were married on May 29, 1971, and built a life together in New Brunswick. Merrick, Gavin, and Shane completed their family, and moved back to Newfoundland. Wayne kept himself busy with work while Patricia had a handful with three boys, they would spend weekends visiting friends and family around Newfoundland. In the early 80’s they embarked on a new chapter in The Pas, Manitoba.
Wayne's career journey led him from TV repair at Gene’s Electronics to specializing in communications and 2-way radios, supported the transformation of the store into Gene’s Telecom. His dedication spanned 33 years, installing radio towers at mining sites in Thompson, Flin Flon, and Snow Lake. Wayne found solace in the familiarity of Flin Flon, reminded him of his beloved Newfoundland.
Away from work, Wayne and Patricia enjoyed adventures in Las Vegas for Motorola Conventions and Dollywood at the Smokey Mountains, Tennessee. Wayne looked forward to family gatherings, whether it was a birthday, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or graduations. He always took the time to hear what we had gotten ourselves into. He loved to laugh and tell a good story while enjoying a great cup of coffee made special by his granddaughter.
Wayne is survived by his wife Patsy, children Merrick (Martine), Gavin (Sabrina), and Shane (Keely), grandchildren Brooke, Logan, Amber, Jayden, Cassidy, Jorja, Jasmine, Miles, and Alexandra, and great-grandchildren Hudson, Karamea, Benjamin, and Joseph. Wayne will also be forever known as Poppy to Krista, James and Caleb.
Family meant the world to Wayne, and he leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents Sophie and Llewlyn Steele, brother Melvin (Elizabeth and Linda), and sister Elizabeth (Ken) Spence.
In memory of Wayne, friends are invited to plant a tree in his honor.