Verona/Black River Falls
James W. Steele, 48, of Verona, passed away Saturday, June 13, 2015, from complications of Alzheimer’s disease.

James was born October 10, 1966 in Milwaukee to Gary and Betty (Hembd) Steele.

Prior to graduating in 1985 from Black River Falls High School, James enjoyed the Track and Cross Country seasons. He then moved to the Madison area and plied his salesmanship toward the wine and liquor industry, selling to fine restaurants and businesses in Southern Wisconsin.

In 2001, James married Susan E. (Beth) Marty. James was very proud of their son, Luke; he was always happy to speak of Luke’s accomplishments, and they shared a love of music.

James enjoyed gardening in the hilly woods above their house, bringing in new plants that he found in out-of-the way nurseries. He always pointed out the Jack-in-the-Pulpit, one of his favorite flowers.

Preceding James in death are his father, Gary H. Steele; in-laws, Charles Roger and Mary Ann (Peg) Marty; and step-father, Harold Frank, Jr.

He is survived by his wife, Beth, Verona, Wisconsin, and son, Luke, at home; mother, Betty Steele, Black River Falls, Wisconsin; siblings, Susan Steele Hutchens, Black River Falls, Wisconsin, and Walter (Susan) Steele, Belleville, Wisconsin.

A Memorial Service will be at 3 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2015 at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, VERONA CHAPEL, 220 Enterprise Drive, Verona with Pastor Gary Holmes officiating. Visitation will be on Friday at the funeral home from 1:30 p.m. until the time of service. A luncheon will follow at 4 p.m., at the Sugar River United Methodist Church, 415 W. Verona Ave., Verona.

Burial will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 20 at Trout Run Cemetery, County Road X and H, Black River Falls.

Memorials may be directed to: Agrace Hospice Care Center, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711.

James Steele

October 10, 1966 - June 13, 2015

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