Harold Espy Steele's Obituary
Relentless competitiveness, gritty toughness, commitment to his family; along with honor, reliability, duty, and a level of work ethic that could not be matched. These are all qualities in which Harold Espy Steele practiced everyday throughout his lifetime. He saw a lot in his life, and lived through wars, the great depression, the invention of the color TV, the civil rights movement, and the advent of the personal computer.Born on February 12, 1929 in San Diego, CA, to Fred Espy and Viola Steele (Denny); Harold Espy Steele was the third child born to this union. He attended Elementary, Wilson junior high school and graduated from Hoover High School in 1949 where he lettered in track, football, baseball and basketball. Shortly after he completed high school he was drafted into the United States Army.During his time in the military he fought in the Korean War and served as a Field Artillery Man. After his tour of duty, he returned home to San Diego and began work for The City of San Diego, where he served for 37 years before he retired. During his tenure he worked as a senior heavy equipment operator and in environmental services. He also worked as a custodian, coached little league and pop warner football all while providing for his family. He was very active in the community and was known as the Mayor of south east San Diego.In November of 1952, Harold first encountered his wife, Dorothy. He was driving down 32nd and Imperial when he saw Dorothy and her friend walking. He said that her hair was combed up, and she wore a flare hoola hoop skirt, with white bobbie socks. In his words, “she was slender with a beautiful smile, and that it was love at first sight.” Despite Dorothy not being interested at first, Harold persisted, and they were married August 23, 1953 in San Diego, CA. They were married for over a half a century; 64 years to be exact! To this union seven children were born. Harold Jr., Regina, Ronald, Karlos, Alisa, Troy and Marvelle. He was a devout husband, and above all else, a family man.Everyone who knew Harold Steele knew that he was always going to be the loudest person in the stands, he would always be sure to give the umpire a hard time and make him earn his pay. He was known by everyone in the community. Harold Steele was a straightforward man who demanded the best from those around him, and when something had to be done he wanted it done right. He cultivated the values of a father’s heart, and a father’s mind. He worked and provided for his family to ensure there was always a place where his children and grandchildren could go and receive the warmness and protection that only a family can provide. His soul brought joy and fulfilment to many, and his legacy will live on forever. Harold leaves, to carry on his legacy, his loving wife Dorothy Steele, Harold Steele Jr, Ronald Steele, Karlos Steele, Alisa Harris, Marvelle Jones and Troy Steele. Three sisters Arlene Espy, Gertrude Russell McCullen, Gwendolyn Bynnom. Two brothers Christopher Espy, Gerard Espy. Twelve grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Fred Leo Espy Sr (Steele) and Viola Steele, his daughter Regina McDaniel, his three sisters Mary Steele, Viola Steele, and Lucille Goodwin, and his three brothers, Arthur Steele, Carl Steele and Elfred Espy. He leaves a host of relatives, cousins and friends.
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