E. Eric Steele

E. Eric Steele died suddenly on Thurs., Dec. 20, 2007 at the Ottawa General Hospital. He was 75.
He was a lifelong resident of Winchester. He lived on the family farm (Lot 2 Con 6) where he was born on April 30, 1932. He was the only child of Ida (Annable) and Ernest Steele. As a boy he helped his father with the family business by delivering milk to area residents.
He married Orian (McIntosh) of Winchester Springs on Aug. 15, 1953.
Having attended the pharmacology program at the University of Toronto, he commenced a business career spanning over 40 years and three drug stores. With partner Gerry Herbert, he owned and operated Elmvale Pharmacy and Fisher Pharmacy before retiring in 1995.
Music was his passion, sharing in church choirs, quartets, and choral groups. He was a lifelong member of Winchester United Church, serving on Council and as a Trustee. He enjoyed travelling with his wife, friends, and family.
Eric was a 32nd degree Mason and a Past Master of the Henderson Lodge - 383 Winchester. He was also a member of the Tunis Shriners in Ottawa.
He will be fondly remembered by his many friends and co-workers at Rideau Auctions where he worked for the past 12 years. Eric continues to live in the love of his family even as he is mourned by his wife of 54 years and his children and their families - Garth (Cathy): Hannah and Deagan; Shaun (Nancy): John and Toni; Kim (Pat): Derek, Brett, Kurt, and Dawson; Bart (Marie): Sydney, Riley, Mason, and Marshall; Jill: Kashtin, Bronte, and Tristan; and Kyle (Cindy): Tyson, Cordell, and Nakita.
Family and friends paid their respects at the Daniels Funeral Chapels in Winchester on Thurs., Dec. 27. He was honoured by the Ottawa Police Escort Squad who paid tribute to Eric, and fellow officers Shaun, Kyle, and Pat by escorting Eric to the funeral service which was held at Winchester United Church on Fri., Dec. 28 conducted by Rev. Bob Williams. Our friend, John Yourt, piped the Lament which expressed the feelings of all present. The UCW graciously provided a chance to share in fellowship after the service by providing a luncheon.
At this time of sorrow the "gift of your presence" was appreciated as were the many expressions of love, sorrow, and respect.
Donations can be made to the Winchester United Church or to Winchester District Memorial Hospital.