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Bobby Steele

Image by Nick Andréka

ROBERT (BOBBY) CRAIG STEELE JR.

April 16, 1944 - September 29, 2023

Bobby’s ‘Last Hoorah’ as he would call it.

Bobby passed away peacefully at home on September 29, 2023. He left us the same way his Dad did at home in his sleep and coincidently also on his Mom’s birthday.

Left to celebrate and give thanks for being part of his life are his significant other Valerie, son Keith (Laureene), sister in laws Sherry and Karen, brother in laws Randy and Mike, niece Charlene (Todd) and many, many good friends.

Bobby was predeceased by his Grandmother Mae (aka Nana), his parents Eleanor (aka Dolly) and Robert, brother Kevin (aka The Yippa Guy), in laws Eleanor (aka Elly) and Cecil, brother in law Brian, sister in law Corinne (aka Dolly) and niece Stacy.

Albany, New York, USA was Bobby’s birth place. He was proud to be named after his Dad and carry the Junior/Jr. handle. His Dad worked for the US Railroad and came to Canada to work for Canadian Pacific / CP. The family moved first to Montreal, Quebec then Winnipeg, Manitoba. In Montreal they lived on McNicol Crescent with a golf course and a creek just beyond their back yard. Idyllic for a little boy growing up. One of Bobby’s favourite sayings was ‘ You don’t have to go to New York. It is all right here.’

The City of Winnipeg, Parks and Rec department employed Bobby for 29 years. He always boasted he never missed one day of work. He created the Wall Of Shame board at work where he posted photos of his co-workers in action. It was a great morale booster and highlight of conversations. Always a surprise who would be on it. The foremans at the City referred to Bobby as the ‘Hippie Boy’.

Bouncing and doing Security work came naturally to Bobby. He was doorman along with his main man and longtime friend Derek Honke at the local hotspots which were The Plaza (The Zoo), Black Knight, Norlander, Corner Boys and Pyramid. Wherever he bounced a loyal clientele followed. He was always diplomatic and polite until someone got out of line. If a fight ensued Bobby would say ‘Are you ok?’ The trouble maker replied … ‘Yes’. Bobby … ‘I don’t want you to be OK.’ Boom, boom! You could always hear Bobby spontaneously yell out ‘Roxanne’ from the Police band’s song (of the same name) at the top of his lungs in the bar. At the end of the night you knew it was time to leave when you heard Bobby’s loud siren sound. 

Bobby became known as a Security icon throughout the city. The old Arena and Stadium at Polo Park, UNF Hall, Burton Cummings Theatre (formerly The Walker), the Baseball Park for concerts and even the Rock n’ Roll River boat cruises were Bobby’s stomping grounds. The Eagles with the Steve Miller band at Asssiniboine Downs in 1978 was his first big concert.

Bobby’s concert security was always recognizable by their uniform … navy blue shirts with the Snoid logo with ‘Since 78’ and Event Staff on the back. They are collector’s items now. Before their uniform came to be they would wear t-shirts provided by the concert promoters. The crew was the most muscular, tough, good-looking group ever and always with a few ladies in the mix.  History in the making and never to be duplicated! Everyone looked up to Bobby and always did an amazing job. When security spots were being assigned you could always hear Bobby yell out ‘Dummy up and listen!’ Bobby always would say that Slava was his ‘Best Man’. The ‘Tuning Crew’ was his creation which was an intimidating group of 5-6 guys who would zone in on trouble spots at a concert. The disorder would quickly disappear once they arrived on the scene. Bobby had a soft spot and always looked out for true music fans. If someone brought their kid to a concert, he would get them right up front of the stage and make them feel special. Of all the concerts at the Burton Cummings theatre The Allman Brothers Band was one of Bobby’s favourites. He even bought an ‘Eat A Peach for Peace’ (album cover) t-shirt. This was a first because he never bought concert t-shirts. If you ever visited Bobby at home the first thing he pulled out was his box of concert security pictures to show you. He was very proud of that chapter in his life.

The first Tattoo shop in Winnipeg was Flying Dragon located on south Osbourne St. just off Morley Ave.  Bobby opened it in the 1980’s along with Harley Charlie doing the tattooing. Bobby was instrumental in the promotion of the tattoo culture in the city. He collected tattoos all over his body. Everything from wild animals to family member portraits. He was very proud of his Irish roots on his Mom’s side and had a shamrock and Celtic tattoos. Bobby was tattooed by the best … Ed Hardy in San Francisco, the Dutchman in Vancouver and Paul Jeffries in Calgary.

San Francisco was Bobby’s winter trip destination. He loved the hills, awesome scenery, unique restaurants and bars and the tattoo scene there. There was the Cliffhouse right on the ocean for breakfast. Scoma’s or The Clam House (with the slanted floor) for amazing seafood dinners. If really hungry an authentic 4 course meal at one of the many Italian restaurants. At the end of the night a drive to Coit Tower located on Telegraph Hill with a breathtaking view of the city, lights and San Francisco Bay. He loved going for a night cap at Tosca Bar (it was originally opened in 1919 by 3 Italians after World War 1) on Columbus Ave. in North Beach. They are known for their famous White Nun drink (steamed milk from the expresso machine with amaretto and brandy). A highlight of one of his trips was seeing Van Morrisson in concert at a small venue. He got the nickname ‘Noble’ from Penny and Patter good friends he stayed with while there. That was because he always frequented ‘The Noble Frankfurter’ for late night munchies.

Bobby loved his hats!  He was usually seen in one of his many Flatcaps or Baseball hat. He swore he was the first one to start wearing a baseball cap on backwards. He was very into his music and at one time had a collection of 1500 albums. Winter hiking on the Seine River, playing pool, stained glass, leather work, woodworking, building pieces of furniture were his interests. He also collected antiques, signs and comic books. Always coming home with something under his arm. He had a passion for Irish folklore, big cats and Frank Frazetta artwork. He was known for his thumbs up hand sign which is evident in many of his photos. He enjoyed photography like his Dad did. He was the camera paparazzi always taking tons of pictures long before cell phones came to be. He would always give crash courses in pig Latin too.

The Hardtimes boxing matches were a highlight of the 1980’s. Bobby was in like flynn planning those good times. It started off with a few guys boxing in a backyard on a hot summer afternoon. Then it turned into a full fledged boxing event at Pyro’s place in St. Norbert off Pembina Hwy with a boxing ring and a doctor on site in case of mishap. Tons of people showed up.

When Bobby’s Dad passed Bobby was dedicated to his Mom and brother Kevin. Every Sunday was family time with a drive or outing and then hitting a favourite restaurant for dinner. There were always road trips to Kenora, Minaki and Clear Lake in the summer. He called his Mom everyday from work at lunchtime.

Bobby was known for his sayings:


It’s the bee’s knees. (meaning to be excellent)
It’s me is that you.
What do you hear, what do you say?
Never a dull moment.
Did you sell the Buick?
Thank your lucky stars.
Pretty good for grade 10.
Yabut!
Sarge!
R A G G  M O P P … Rag Mop!
Why don’t you take a walk!
What’s the scoop?


Just about everyone had a nickname from Bobby. His friend Cheryl (aka Cheezy) said once you had a nickname from him you were like family.

Here are the nicknames he came up with:
Pyro, Pinhead, Bo Power, Big W, Turmoil, Mayhem, Young Walker, Jan Clam Button, The Button Sisters, Feather, Sweet Su, Cleveland, Diesel, The Aces, The Deuces, Trois, Footlong, Golden Glen, Tbone, Dog Piss, Chopped Liver, G Spot, The Yippa (he called little Aleah that one), Pork Roast/The Roast, Trigger, Washington, Mrs Otto, Mr & Mrs K, Stashko, and Weezy. You know who you are!

Nicknames he gave to friends who have passed:
Pretty Boy, Mogey, Too Tall Steve, Filter, Scurvy Dog, The Pig, Hard Nut, Stormin Norman/The Vort, Flamingo, Indian, Ho, Al Lasalle, and Studski.

Oh yes of course Bobby picked up a few nicknames of his own over the years … Beach Boy, Dirty Neck, Pinhead, Numb Nuts, The Bull, and Loveball.

Forever grateful to all of Bobby’s caregivers - Eddy, Karen, Feather, Sherry, Steph, Jason, Terese, Anysley, Leizl and Corinne. Marcie it was so touching that you released flower petals from your garden into the ocean in honour of Bobby. Bobby’s doctor Dr Sawatsky’s support and house calls were a godsend. Eddy you touched all of our hearts when you took that final walk with Bobby and gave your blessing at the end. 

Bobby you are one of a kind, our gentle giant with a kind heart, everyone’s hero, always smiling, jovial and people were always drawn to you. Good friend Debbie now living in Tasmania said no comedian could match Bobby’s quick, witty, sense of humour. It is never going to be the same without you and you are already missed big time!

Cremation has taken place and there will be a private family service.

Will be loving you always, not for a day, not for a year but always. 

No more earthly concerns … only heavenly freedom.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Glenn B

April 24, 2024 at 12:59 PM

I met him at the Norlander when I was 18 and I would bring slightly younger girls there with me. Once the waitress asked for ID that my friend did not have and he vouched for her, so we bought a few beers. He would recognize me from previous visits but we never hung out or really knew each other. He was just really nice to a young guy and his date. That was over 40 years ago and I remember him like yesterday. I also remember him and Derek from The Zoo and they ran a tight ship.

Violet D'Saint

February 4, 2024 at 2:53 PM

Bobby had a heart of gold. I was surprised when Bobby and Val showed up at my daughter, Fawn-Elise's baby shower on a warm summers day at the back of my parents house. My dad filled an old outside bath tub up with ice and beer. I was 21. Many moons have shone by since then.  I met Bobby when I was 18. 51 years ago. Holy Mackerel. Life flys by, doesn't it? I took care of Bobby's disabled brother, Kevin for a short period. It was a highlight of my life. We had so much fun. It was close to  the end of his life. I loved his uniqueness. He was a collector of colored pencils and videos, like me! Kevin had a unique past. He always worried about his money. Keeping a close track of it. Must've been from his Accountant years. He was the smart, silent type.  Bobby was like a monkey, a barrel of laughs, never a dull moment. He and brother, Kevin radiated with sweetness, both gentle souls. The world could use more people like those two. They stood for: "Truth, Honesty, Integrity & Justice" .  You'll be dearly missed. God Bless. May the light and love of God always protect you from the dark forces. I'll be looking for you in the next life. Until then friend, you'll be fondly remembered. Tons o love. Always. Your pal, Violet. You know! "Hey, look, it's Boothill's Sister", as you always called me! Lol... ❤😳👍

Sandi Gordon

December 14, 2023 at 7:15 AM

Met Bobby more than 50 years ago. Lived in and out of Winnipeg through the years & was always delighted when our paths crossed. He never failed to make me laugh with his sharp wit, magnetic personality & cheeky smile. Keep on rockin' my old friend.❤

john cooch couture

December 13, 2023 at 5:07 PM

Met Bobby at the old arena when he was in charge of security. At the time i was the concession manager. He always came to say hi and is everything ok. Always gave me a Xmas card from him and the guys. A very thoughtful man. RIP Bobby.

M

December 13, 2023 at 10:42 AM

He sure left a big impression on anyone that met him good or bad! Rip big guy!

Earl Skundberg

December 12, 2023 at 5:40 PM

Condolences to you and yours, Val. First got to know Bobby back in The Zoo and Corner Boys days, our acquaintance evolving into friendship over the years… good mutual friend, Debbie, was a big part of that. It was 15-20 years ago that Bobby first nicknamed me “The Duke” (of Earl)! RIP Bobby… I’ll be seeing you on the other side eventually, but I’m in no hurry to get there… just keep some beer chilled, willya? Hasta luego amigo, The Duke

Lynne

December 12, 2023 at 8:27 AM

My sincere condolences to Valerie, Keith and family. I remember he always had a great smile. Everyone liked Bobby as he was a great caring guy, very unique. Never boring. May he now rest in peace. 

Bruce

December 11, 2023 at 6:31 PM

Great man , Miss ya Bobby. Love ya , Bruce B.

Andy katz

December 11, 2023 at 1:14 PM

Rip buddy

Laureene

December 11, 2023 at 12:13 PM

What a beautiful tribute to an amazing man and a life lived to the fullest

Brent Lethbridge

December 10, 2023 at 8:54 PM

I worked for star kommand production late 1970’s mid 80’s. Part of my job was to liason with Bobby about ‘security’ issues prior to shows. We had a lot of great laffs, crazy situations and memorable evenings. Thought it would never end. Bobby was a good vibe and warm spirit. 

"Wideglide"

December 10, 2023 at 8:07 PM

What a beautiful tribute for an unforgettable soul. RIPARADISE Bobby ❤

Reg Denis

December 10, 2023 at 2:16 PM

The Crackers band will always remember the great memories we had with Bobby, gone but never forgotten...R.I.P.  ❤

Keith

December 10, 2023 at 5:25 AM

Working with Bobby was never a dull moment. The knowledge and wisdom he had and all the stories he shared were amazing. He could often be heard talking out of the side of his mouth saying “Harold” and he always had a a big grin and once he got to know you and he liked you he would never forget you.  REST IN PEACE FRIEND  Keith E

Jax

December 9, 2023 at 8:39 PM

Goodbye sweet man. One of a kind, beautiful human. I'm honored to have been your friend. I will never forget you. My condolences to those you held close.

Dan Scanlon

December 9, 2023 at 7:39 PM

Thank you Bobby for allowing me to be a part of your crew. You were a great guy and l always looked up to you. You will be missed.

“Foot Long”

December 9, 2023 at 7:06 PM

I met The Man The Legend “Bobby Steele 50 years ago when I was 18 years young at the Marion Hotel…Bobby strolled in the back door n had a beef with some loser guy who had just broken a beer bottle on Bobby’s head…I asked him you OK he said give me a minute shook off his cobwebs n proceeded to beat the living crap out this loser guy then we had a couple of beers together n our Friendship began… It was “Golden Glenn” who was already working Concert Security with Bobby n The Boys n he brought me there to meet Bobby for my second time at the arena n as they say…”The Rest is History”…. Lastly when I worked security been the smallest of The Boys but could take care of business when needed I would ask some guys n gals to move or get their act together they would sometimes give me static or lip service I would Point to the “Man” Bobby Steele n “Awesome” Big Dave Campbell  and tell them See Those 2 Nice Guys… There Not Going to Ask Nicely to Move like I am n you know what happened they Always Moved changed their attitude n would have a Great Time at the Concert LOL… It was My Honour n Privilege to be in Booby Steele n Val’s Life n I never forgot to phone or see them for their Birthdays… Rest In Peace My Dearest Friend Bobby… I Will Luv Ya Always aka “Foot Long” Louis…My Deepest Sympathies to You Valerie and All “Booby Steele” Family n World Wide Faithfull Friends…✌️❤️🥂

Lin Keagan

December 9, 2023 at 6:37 PM

A good natured man is how I found him to be. Diplomatic to his core. Didn't matter which door he was working security for, we( " The Twins, Barbara N or myself ( L.Keagan) never ever waited in any line up to that bar or event. My ancestry is Irish, so he had some zingers there, almost peed myself many times! Good times at the Get Togethers on Portage Ave. Also a big Alman Brothers fan, loved yacking at him about music, especially when Wet Pants used to play at the Norlander. Be at peace friend.. forever fly with the Wild Atlantic Winds.....❤

Scott Miner

December 9, 2023 at 6:24 PM

I met Bobby through Michelle. Always a smile and never a harsh word. Good man. My condolences to his family.

Ken Meakin

December 9, 2023 at 5:31 PM

A great guy to work with. Always had a joke to tell and always had the “year pictures “ of his crew at the old arena. Don’t forget the loonie!!!

Gay

December 9, 2023 at 5:23 PM

I have many fond memories of Bobby. He was one of a kind. Always smiling and so thoughtful! 

Kevin James Kirby

December 9, 2023 at 5:11 PM

Ya ya ya ya ya…he  made us a very fortunate to have not only known him but to proudly stand by him keeping people safe , everyone who knew him would all agree there will never be another gentle kind but solid soul like Bobby…his presence was illuminating….he will be sadly missed…keep heaven safe with the ARCH ANGELS Bobby…cheers…

Brian L. King

December 9, 2023 at 3:33 PM

You were a gentleman and a legend Bobby. Best and only vocal siren for closing time! 

Duke

December 9, 2023 at 12:58 PM

RIP Bobby , miss yot late night calls ❤Duke 

Brenda

December 9, 2023 at 12:39 PM

RIP Bobby! You are missed by many. 🙏🏻❤️

Jeff wilson

December 9, 2023 at 11:44 AM

❤he was a part of Winnipeg landscape for the music and bar scene. I met him years ago when I was going to the bar and later at events . Always had a great time with him. I can't remember the last time I say him 😭 but I do know he had come to my place to see how I was going. I will always remember his kindness and I am not a big guy so when I went in places and events he always made sure I was ok and safe.. I can honestly say he is a a part of Winnipeg music scene that I will never forget. My condolences to Bobbys family and close friends ❤️. Gone but never forgotten . Beautiful tribute and the song is totally appropriate. ❤️

Dianna falke

December 9, 2023 at 10:51 AM

A Beautiful tribute.   Bobby was a very gentle kind man. Knew him from the Norlander,  Zoo and the Black knight.  Rip Bobby

Scott

December 9, 2023 at 10:24 AM

I didn't know Bobby, but I knew some of his acquaintances over the years. Had a few of my friends compete in the infamous "Hard Times" bouts in the early 80s, and a few actually worked with him in security gigs. Never heard a bad thing about him. Finally ran into him briefly in around 1995. Nice guy. Gave off a good vibe. Sorry to hear of his passing. RIP Bobby.

Steve from Gertrude st

December 9, 2023 at 12:48 AM

Rip old friend, 

Nancy

December 9, 2023 at 12:17 AM

I first met Bobby at the Norlander in the 70’s and we stayed friends for years.  He called me “Fance” and  he always watched out for my friends and I.  We were all so young!  If he saw me standing in the. Queue to get in, he would walk over to me, throw me over his shoulder carry me inside and tell me not to wait in line ever again!  Of course I did !  ( maybe only for the shoulder ride).  Bobby was a great guy, and I will always be grateful for having known him! We all felt safe and seen when he was around…. they really broke the mold when they made  you my friend!!.  Fly high Bobby, you have earned your wings and you are well loved!  I hope to see you on the other side…. look for me in the Queue 💕

Stacey Borgstrom

December 9, 2023 at 12:01 AM

Sweet Sweet Soul, I am so glad you were part of our Hero Crew at Corner Boys. Many nights you saved us woman from unruly people. I will have to dig out the pictures of singing on the stage, in your Donny Lalonde gear. Love the photo of you and Barry together. So many laughs you two together. You lived a legend life. The very top shelf. Rest In Peace knowing you were a prince among men. ❤ Stacey

Little Joe aka The Total Package 💔💔💔

December 8, 2023 at 11:39 PM

I 1st met Bobby and Derek when they Worked at the Norlander, then of Course at the Zoo this Man was one of the Best Human Beings I have Ever Met!! Never did I see him in a Fight then we worked together at Corner Boys that is where he gave me the Nickname the Total Package, then I worked for him a Few Times  at the Stadium at A Pink Floyd Concert then the Rolling Stones!! And Hos Wife Val what can I say always Beautiful and Looked out for Bobby right till the End. I will always remember him as the Gentle Giant Loved this Guy, Big Fella you are not here in the Flesh but I Guarantee that you are here in our Hearts forever, and in my Memories always and will always be a part of me Forever !!!!

Ron Ledohowski

December 8, 2023 at 10:07 PM

Farewell, my friend. Your impact on me since our Norlander days has been significant. I've always held you in high esteem, and those annual Christmas cards were a special touch. Although our encounters became rarer as time passed, I wish for one more conversation before you left us. The phrases "It's me, is dat you?", "the good life," and the pirates' "Arbee-Darrr" linger in my memories. Rest peacefully in (Rock 'n Roll) Heaven until we meet again. --- In the grand theater of existence, where the curtains of fate draw open for each of us, it matters not whether our days are adorned with the splendor of a life well-lived or drenched in the emptiness of missed opportunities. In the end, the relentless hand of time delivers the same verdict to us all - we all shall face the inevitable embrace of mortality. Therefore, let us not be constrained by the fear of our mortality, but rather, let us seize the precious moments gifted to us with fervor and zest. Live not merely as spectators in the unfolding drama of life, but as the protagonists, the auteurs of our own stories. Embrace the beauty of existence, and let love, that most potent elixir of the soul, flow freely through our veins. For in the symphony of life, we are the conductors of our own destiny, and it is through the harmony of living and loving that we etch our indelible mark upon the universe. --- Doesn't matter who you are; how tough, famous, rich, beautiful, talented or powerful. 𝗡𝗢 𝗢𝗡𝗘 IS PERMANENT‼️ FLESH IS WEAK... Only the soul is immortal. LIVE your life living; don't live your life dying. Memento Vivere... Remember you have to live. Carpe Diem ... Seize the day. *Memento Mori... Remember, you will die. "*Memento mori" (Latin: "remember (that) you will die") is the medieval Latin Christian theory and practice of reflection on mortality, especially as a means of considering the vanity of earthly life and the transient nature of all earthly goods and pursuits.

Dave lobson

December 8, 2023 at 9:43 PM

You knew dont be a dick and you were safe at the zoo.   Once Bobby ask me randy and warden to leave.  Rob was being a dick to the singer.   We left very fast.  Back a few days latter and all was good.    Super nice guy 

Kimmy

December 8, 2023 at 9:30 PM

❤Beautiful words, The Legend, RIP sweet man!

Joe Myles

December 8, 2023 at 9:15 PM

Beautiful tribute to a beautiful legend. R.I.P. Bobby.
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Ethical Death Care (Death Care Services Inc.) is privately, independently, and locally owned. Shane Neufeld and the original team of Integrity Death Care own and manage this organisation.

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