James Edward Steel

James Edward Steel, age 96 of Hudson, died March 20th at Lakeview Hospital in Stillwater. Jim was born on August 15, 1929 in Ladysmith, Wisconsin; the son of Harold and Florence (Brovan) Steel. He was raised near Ladysmith, attending Crane Elementary prior to graduating Ladysmith High School in 1947. In 1951, Jim enlisted in the United States Army, an experience that shaped his maturity and discipline. He served during the Korean War in the nuclear arsenal division. He served his country faithfully for three years before receiving an honorable discharge.

Jim's working career began with a paper route at the young age of 13. Soon after, it was clear that Jim would have success in whatever his mind decided. As a teenager, he became a manager for the Milwaukee Journal. He furthered his schooling at the University of Wisconsin - Madison where he received his bachelors degree in business. He possessed a sharp numerical mind, which led him naturally into accounting and becoming a CPA. Soon thereafter, he became employed by the state of Wisconsin's Bureau of Municipal Audit. He worked there many years before making a switch to St. Croix County, where he served as the St. Croix County Finance Director. After decades of service to our state, he retired in 1989. Jim was married to his best friend and soul mate Carol 'Lorraine' Frazier at the First Presbyterian Church in Hudson. This union spanned sixty years, before she would sadly pass in 2017.

Jim carried himself with quiet confidence, never one to speak just to be heard, but always worth listening to. It was this steady, thoughtful presence that made him a comforting guide to others, serving as chaplain of the Masonic Lodge and presiding over services at care centers and celebrations of life. Jim was actively involved with the St. Croix Lodge No. 56 Free and Accepted Masonic Lodge in Hudson. He remained steadfastly dedicated throughout his life, being recognized for sixty years of faithful service, some as Worshipful master. He enjoyed working with friends and serving the community at the wild game feed and pancake breakfasts. Jim loved spending time at the family cabin affectionately known as Fourth North near Spooner, Wisconsin. He loved the opportunity to wet a line, catching some sun fish or enticing a bass hiding under the lily pads.

He loved the camaraderie of deer hunting, which he continued up until the age of 94 as well as four wheeling around the cabin. Jim was extremely active in our community. He was deeply woven into the fabric of the community, giving his time across many organizations. He never sought recognition, preferring instead to work quietly, helping shape a stronger, better place for others. Jim gave back to his community through organizations on their board of directors for the Willow River Cemetery, Historical Society/Octagon House, Crime Stoppers, Hudson Hospital Foundation, Hudson Housing Authority, and Phipps Foundation. Jim also found it very fulfilling to assist with meals on wheels and the First Presbyterian Church where he served as an elder. Jim had a love of theatrical acting.

He thoroughly enjoyed his time with the St. Croix Valley Arts Guild. He was a cast member of the play Our Town where his character serve as the stage manager. This play carried over as the very first play at the newly opened Phipps Center for the Arts. Above all, Jim was all about family and deeply devoted to all of them.

Jim will be dearly missed by his children Dave (Mary) Steel of Appleton, Dan (Kaye) Steel of New Richmond, Barb (Al) Burke of Hudson; grandchildren Stephanie (Ralph) Broad, Samantha (Kyle) Bartels, Christina (Brian) Rappl, Matt (Corinne) Steel, Andy (Casey) Burke, Steven (Bella) Burke; great grandchildren Lucas, Olivia, Ellie, Liam, Karlee, Winston, Lucille, Henry, Owen, Madeline, Eleni, McKenna; siblings Linda Jacobs, Mike (Carol) Steel, and sister-in-law Arlet Steel.

Jim is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lorraine, siblings Carol (Arlin) Clay and Russell Steel.

Funeral Service for Jim Steel will be 11:00am, Friday, March 27th at the First Presbyterian Church in Hudson. There will be one hour visitation at church prior to the funeral. Military honors remembering Jim's service in the Army will be performed by the Hudson VFW. l will be in the Willow River Cemetery. A visitation will also be held Thursday, March 26th from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at the O'Connell Family Funeral Home in Hudson with a masonic service to conclude at 7pm.

Memorials are preferred to the discretion of the family.

Arrangements are entrusted to O'Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hudson. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-386-3725

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