Michael F. Steele

Mike carried the US ARMY CREED with him until his last day, a testament to his unwavering commitment to duty.  Unveiling this plaque in his honor, we pay tribute to a life lived with courage and dedication.

Today is Mike’s 76^th birthday.  We look back on 4 years ago, his 72^nd birthday, when his family made him a birthday promise; to ensure his legacy would be forever etched upon this mountaintop.  Though his time with us was tragically cut short 3 weeks later, today we joyously fulfill that promise!

Mike was born on February 10, 1948 to Rita & Paul Steele, and had 2 siblings – Theresa and Steven.  Mike was called to serve his country at age 20, proudly joining the 101^st Airborne Division/Screaming Eagles during the Vietnam War and had the additional honor of serving with the Special Forces. He served with honor & distinction even in the face of unimaginable loss.  After serving 2 years, 2 months, and 22 days in ’68, ’69, and ’70, he received the devastating news that his brother, Steve (also Special Forces) had been killed in action on April 20, 1970. Mike had the impossible task of identifying his brother’s body.  Mike returned home and Steve was buried at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery.

Mike’s life of service didn’t end there.  At age 38, after owning his own trucking business and a frozen yogurt shop in San Marcos, he built a successful career with the California Department of Corrections, retiring after 26 years as a Correctional Captain.

Mike also joined up with the Army Reserves & fulfilled his 20+ years of service.  He became a Drill Sergeant and received numerous accolades. His unit was called to active duty during the Gulf War and he proudly served under the Campaign of Operation Noble Eagle at the Warrior Transition Course in White Sands, New Mexico.  He retired from the Army in 2008, a highly decorated soldier.

Mike was more than just a soldier; he was a man of many passions. He was fun, witty, adventurous and kind. 

In August of 1970, only months after Mike returned home from Vietnam, he married his nextdoor neighbor – Jamie Conrad.  They moved to Cardiff and began their lives together, eventually adding 4 beautiful children – Christen, Jason, Sarah, and Michael.  After retirement, Mike and Jamie spent years traveling across the country, up and down the coasts in their Airstream trailer and made wonderful memories visiting family, friends, and Army buddies. Mike loved that trailer, being outdoors, camping, fishing, and waking up to each new day.

Mike was fiercely proud of his children and his 9 grandchildren – Tanner, Violet, Emiliano, Harper, Lillie, Emily, Jay, Josh and Ryan.  He left them hoping they each knew how loved they were. We pray the memories he made with his family will last through their lifetime.

On March 7^th, 2020, Mike passed away (5 months shy of their 50^th anniversary) and joined Christen & Jason in Heaven. He was buried on his beloved unit date (THREE TWO SEVEN), at Miramar National Cemetery with full military honors.

The Steele family extends their gratitude to all who loved him, stood by his side throughout his journey, and are here today. May his soldier spirit live on in our hearts forevermore!