Richard is survived by his wife Joan Eckert Steele of 63 years.  Two sons, David (Laurel) of Eustis, FL, Mark (Nicole) of Clearwater, FL, and daughter Mary (William) Dodd of St. Augustine, FL. Eight grandchildren, Ashlee (Rev. Nathan) Wallace, Jordyne Steele, Tyler Dodd, Cory Steele, Shane Dodd, (Krystin), Zac Steele, Kelli Dodd & Karlee Steele. Four great grandchildren, Alexandra, Nicholas, Aliza and Silas Wallace.

Richard was Fire Chief, Fire Marshall and a volunteer fireman for the City of Plantation, Fl, serving the City of Plantation for 31 years before retiring in 2000.  Richard is also survived by three brothers, James (Kathy) of Erie, Pa., Thomas (Karen) of Salem, Va., & Bert (Sally) of Arlington, Tx.,  Funeral mass will be held at St. Mary of the Lakes Catholic Church at 716 S. Center Street, Eustis, Florida on August 5, 2023 at 12 noon.  Burial arrangements are forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers please remember the children of St. Jude's Hospital.