Delbert J. (Bud) Steele
courtesy photo
Delbert J. (Bud) Steele
ST. IGNATIUS — Delbert J. (Bud) Steele passed peacefully on Sept. 28, 2021, at his home in St. Ignatius with family at his side. Bud was born Aug. 22, 1930 on the Jim Johnson Ranch in Milk River to John W. and Doris Carter Steele.
Bud attended elementary school on the Blackfeet reservation. This is also where his cowboy life began before enlisting for military service. Bud served in the U.S. Army, Company E 35th Infantry Regiment 25 Division during the Korean War. A proud patriot, he defended his county at Heartbreak Ridge, Hill 57 and Chosin Reservoir. Bud was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, United Nations Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with two bronze stars, three silver stars.
Before leaving for service, Bud married his true love, Joyce Leighton. On Feb. 3, 1951, in Moses Lake, Washington, Bud and Joyce began their life together and three children were lovingly woven into this incredible western tapestry that Bud and Joyce called life – Wesley, Cindy and Mark. What followed was a 70-year adventure raising family, building lifelong friendships, and working side-by-side throughout their ranching years.
In addition to being an active member of the LDS church, Bud was a founding member of the Othello Rodeo Association. Bud Steele was a cowboy from birth. He was at home when in the saddle, working cattle, or training his well-bred colts. When not working, Bud could be found braiding rawhide reins and riatas. Bud unknowingly authored a long list of true cowboy stories, with both laughter and tears; stories that will be passed down through generations.
Bud’s passing is preceded by two children, Wesley and Cindy; great-granddaughter, Harlee; parents, John and Doris, sisters, Deloris Sullivan and Lila Weis; brothers, Mathew Steele and Wilford (Swede) Steele.
Bud is survived by his wife, Joyce; son, Mark (Donna) Steele; sisters, Dorothy Hoots of Othello, Washington, and Hazel Kotlan of Spokane, Washington, ten grandchildren, Joshua, Crystal, Brad, Hunter, Tanya, Andrea, Brandy, Jessica, William, and Ty; thirteen great-grandchildren and a long list of “adopted” family.
Services will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 6, at 11 a.m. at the LDS Church in St. Ignatius.
Graveside services will be held at Bess Hampton Memorial Gardens in Othello, Washington, on Oct. 9. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www.shriderthompson.com.
Arrangements are under the care of Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home.
