Joseph (Joe) Beatty Steele

Joe passed peacefully at the North Bay Regional Health Centre, on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. He was 94 years old.

Joe was predeceased by his wife of 52 years, Elaine (Eby) (1938-2013); his parents Gladys (Armstrong) and Mervyn Steele; and his brothers Ronnie Steele (the late Judy) and Walter Steele (the late Shirley).

Joe was the beloved father of Christine Ouellette (Randy) of North Bay, Lisa Amendola (Dale) of North Bay and Mitchell Steele of Powassan. Joe was also a special father-in-law to John Ouellette of North Bay. He was the much-loved grandfather of Danielle Ouellette (Colin) and Bradley Normand (Jordan). He will also be remembered fondly by his numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who were like family. Joe absolutely loved spending time with his fur-grandchildren, including Matilda, Harriette, Clover, Mookie, Jack, Ellie, Frankie and Rooke.

Joe was retired from Customer Service at Ontario Hydro, where he worked his entire career for 37 years. He was well known far and wide for his keen knowledge of local history, love of people and outgoing personality. Joe was dubbed the title “Mr. Hockey”. He possessed a vast collection of local and international hockey memorabilia and was known for his encyclopedic knowledge, which he was happy to share with anyone who would listen. His collection was particularly notable for his cherished treasures from NHL superstars to whom he was related. He will be fondly remembered for his commitment to supporting local sport; mentoring, coaching and managing youth in the area for many years. Joe was also a proud member of the Masonic Lodge in Powassan. In his later years, Joe put his heart and soul into the Nipissing Township Museum as curator for 16 years. His position here was not simply a job, but rather the fulfillment of his life’s passion; bringing local history to life for thousands of visitors. His contributions and legacy will live on as part of the Nipissing Township Museum forever.

The Steele family will receive visitors at the Paul Funeral Home, Powassan, on Friday, November 14, 2025 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm., with a Masonic Tribute Service at 7:00 pm, and on Saturday, November 15 from 10:00 to 11:00 am., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am. Interment at Powassan Union Cemetery.

Should you wish to make a donation in Joe’s memory, contributions can be made to the Powassan Minor Hockey Association to support youth who would not otherwise be able to participate in organized hockey. Payments can be made via e-transfer to powassanhawkstreasurer@gmail.com with “Joe Steele” included in the memo or cash donations will be gratefully accepted.

To share a memory or photo, or to leave a message of condolence for the Steele family, please visit paulfuneralhome.ca or call Paul Funeral Home, Powassan 705-724-2024.

His family would like to offer their profound thanks to the staff at Empire Living Centre who were so kind in their care of Joe. He truly had a special place in his heart for each and every one of them. Additionally, the family are very grateful for the exceptional care that Joe received in his final days at the North Bay Regional Health Centre in the Emergency Department and on C1.