Washington Times-Herald
ELNORA — Thomas Calvin Steele, 86, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Monday at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Elnora on March 29, 1926, to Frank and Cora (Walls) Steele. He served in World War II in the European Theatre, stationed in Germany. He remembered fondly literally running into General Dwight D. Eisenhower. After the war he returned to Elnora where he discovered a new girl had moved into town. Her name was Geraldine Sheetz and it was love at first sight. They were married Dec. 25, 1947, and she survives. Unto this union was born three children; Tony (deceased) (Carol) Steele, Cindy (Ray) Burris, and Shane Steele (deceased). They were blessed with four grandchildren, Scott Steele, Amber Parsons, Cody Craig and Chelsey Burris; as well as five great-grandchildren, Bailee Parsons and Nathan, Carter, Parker and Avery Steele. He is also survived by his sister Ruth Effinger of Terre Haute, many nephews and one niece. Tom retired from Crane Naval Base in 1984. He was a 50-year member of the Elnora Masonic Lodge 616. He enjoyed fishing, reading, working crossword puzzles, gardening and spending time with his family. He is preceded in death by his parents; sons Tony and Shane; and brothers Denver, Robert, Richard, Donald, Jack and Verlin. Visitation will be at Poindexter-McClure Funeral Home, Odon Chapel, from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral at noon Wednesday, with a Masonic service also at noon. Rev. Debbie Payne and Cody Craig will officiate the funeral. Interment will be in Fairview Cemetery in Elnora, with military graveside rites.
