Gary R. Steele

     Gary R. Steele, age 84 of Shippenville and formerly of Knox, passed away at his home on Monday evening, March 2, 2026, following a brief illness.

     Born March 8, 1941, in DuBois, he was a son of the late Robert Steele and Mary Klingensmith Steele. 

     He grew up in Beechwoods, graduating from Brockway High School and continued his education at Lock Haven, where he earned a bachelor’s degree and met his wife, the former Lois Wirt.

     Gary taught English and History at Keystone High School and was also the Keystone Panther’s head football coach for many years.

     He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, was an avid golfer and served on the boards of the Foxburg Country Club and Knox Ambulance Company.

     Survivors include his wife, Lois; daughters: Laurie O’Neil (Bob LaRocca) of Knox and Amy Womelsdorf (Rob) of Colorado; three grandchildren: Katie Bashline of Shippenville, Jeff Womelsdorf (Kaci) of Colorado and Becky Womelsdorf of California, and two great grandchildren: Emilia and Delilah Womelsdorf, both of Colorado.

     Gary is also survived by a sister-in-law, Gerri Kay Towsey of Port Royal; brother-in-law, Steve Wirt of Mifflintown, and six nephews.

     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his great grandson, Henry; brother, Vaughn Steele; father and mother-in-law, Gerald and Beatrice Wirt, and brother-in-law, Robert Wirt.

     At Gary’s request, there will be no services.

     If you would like to honor Gary, memorials contributions may be given in his name to Clarion-Forest VNA/Hospice, 271 Perkins Road, Clarion, PA 16214 (cfvna.org); Knox Volunteer Fire Company, P.O. Box 106, Knox, PA 16232; Knox Ambulance Company, P.O. Box 636, Knox, PA 16232 or Knox Public Library, P.O. Box 510, Knox, PA 16232

     Arrangements are under the direction of the William N. Rupert Mortuary, Inc. of Knox.

     Online condolences may be sent to Gary’s family at www.rupertfuneralhomes.com

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