Jean E. Steele

Jean E. Steele, 94, of Fairview, Kansas, and formerly of Morrill, Kansas, passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at the Life Care Center of Seneca in Seneca, Kansas.

Jean was born on November 8, 1931, in Falls City, Nebraska, to Orville and Elizabeth (Buchholz) Thompson. She graduated from Fairview High School in 1949.

Following her graduation, she attended the University of Kansas in Lawrence and Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, and earned her teaching certificate. Jean taught at Fairview schools until her marriage to Dale Steele. On April 27, 1951, Dale and Jean were married at the Church of the Brethren parsonage in Sabetha, and four children were born to this union. Jean was a dedicated servant of God and, in 1951, was baptized and became a member of the Church of the Brethren in Sabetha.

After their marriage, Jean and Dale farmed and raised livestock in the Morrill, Kansas area. In 1975, Dale was involved in a hay baling accident that resulted in the loss of both arms, which changed the family’s life completely. Despite this, Dale and Jean continued their agricultural work. Dale adapted by learning to use a prosthesis to drive and operate machinery, and care for livestock, a process that was only possible with Jean’s support.

Throughout her lifetime, Jean remained a devoted Jayhawk fan. Jean enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dale; her two brothers, Kenneth and Allen Thompson; her nephew, Greg Thompson; her niece, Susan Thompson; and her sister, Isabel (Thompson) Rogers.

Jean is survived by her children, David Steele of St. Mary’s, Kansas, Cheryl (Dave) Mishler of Sabetha, Joyce Ruhnke of Fairview, and Dalene (Randy) Smith of Everest, Kansas; her five grandchildren; and her eight great-grandchildren.

A private family service and interment will be held at the Morrill Cemetery in Morrill, Kansas. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Trinity Church of the Brethren in Sabetha, Kansas, and can be sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, Kansas 66534.