Steele - John E (Dr)
Source: Crawfordsville Weekly Journal 21 June 1901 p 5
Again were we made sad by the words, Dr. John E. Steele is dead and to quote his own words at the funeral of JA Berryman, “we are again called upon to perform a sad duty, your friend and mine is dead.” Sad, sweet memories, empty chair, vacant place at the table, never returning footsteps, the silent voice, these bring sadness, but the many kind words, the beaming smiles and kindly deeds, who would strike these from memory. Our loved ones do not die, their memories rise like perfume upon the air to gladden our lonely hours. John E. Steele was born June 21, 1850, entered the ministry in the Methodist Conference in the year 1875 was sent to the Crawfordsville circuit and preached his first sermon in Potato Creek Church in the fall of 1879. On the 28th day of December, 1881, he was united in marriage to Mattie, only daughter of John and Hannah Peterson of Potato Creek. To them was born one son, Reed, who is now attending school at Purdue. After leaving this circuit he filled many places of importance as preacher and was then made an elder and placed in the New Albany district, his home being in New Albany at the time of his death. For years he was the picture of health, well proportioned he looked the ideal of health and full manhood; full of voice and strength, his sermons were full of power. As an elder his labors were arduous, his zeal for his work was great, and after a time his health began to waver, but his zeal for work for good made him keep his place and even after his friends begged him to rest he continued his work until some six months ago he was compelled to realize the fact that he must quit for a time and place himself under the care of a physician. He chose the best as he supposed but the fire had already begun to burn low, and after all was done that could be, he died at farmland June 10th where he had gone for treatment. His wife had been with him all the time, her father joining them about a week ago and were the only relatives present at his death. The son, Reed and James Peterson reached there soon after and made immediate arrangements for his removal to this place where they arrived at 4 p.m. Tuesday. Dr. Steele had many warm friends here where he had often visited He was known as a true Christian, ever zealous in his Master’s work and was a preacher of more than ordinary merit. Being of a jovial and kind disposition, he made friends wherever he went, and his congregations were always large. Called home in the prime of life, just as his labors began to bear fruit. All mourn his death, but remember his teachings, and can only say, “God’s ways are not our ways, blessed be the name of the Lord.” His funeral took place Thursday at the ME Church conducted by Dr. HJ Talbot, of Evansville, assisted by Rev. JS Crowder, pastor in charge. A large concourse of friends then followed the remains for burial to the IOOF Cemetery. Sad hearts turn away and Dr. John E. Steele is known only in memory dear. - transcribed by kbz
Source: Crawfordsville Weekly Journal Friday, 14 June 1901
Word was received here Tuesday from New Albany announcing the death there of Dr. J. E. Steele, presiding elder of the New Albany district of the Methodist Church.
Dr. Steele had been ill for some months with consumption and his death was not unexpected. He was well known here where he formerly resided and had frequently visited. His last visit here was on the occasion of the Simison-Hornbeck wedding, at which he officiated.
Dr. Steele was a son-in-law of John Peterson of Darlington, and his body was taken to Darlington for burial. The funeral took place on Thursday morning at ten o’clock. -s