Richard Daniel Steele

Richard Daniel Steele, 58, passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 after a life well lived. Born on January 3, 1968, in Schenectady, he was the beloved son of Robert A. Steele and the late Cheryl Masterpole.

Richard was a proud 1988 graduate of Linton High School. He will be remembered as a loving and caring soul whose distinctive walk, unforgettable smile, and kind heart brought joy to everyone he met. Richard had a remarkable way of making people happy, whether it was the little things he did for them, or by making them laugh at his funny, witty comments. His warm personality made him a familiar and cherished presence throughout downtown Schenectady.

A devoted sports fan, Richard had an incredible memory for sports statistics. Whether it was a game played last week or decades ago, he could recall the details with ease, and it was nearly impossible to stump him with a sports question.

Richard's greatest treasure was the many people he considered family. Along with his relatives, he was blessed with his Lincoln Heights family and his downtown family, including the kind staff at Burger King. To Richard, family was defined not only by blood, but friendship, kindness, loyalty, and the connections he made throughout his life. He loved each of them deeply, and that love was returned many times over.

Richard's infectious smile, humor, gentle spirit, and genuine love for others will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Richard was predeceased by his devoted mother, Cheryl Masterpole; and grandparents, Daniel and Evelyn Masterpole and Alton and Lucina Steele.

He is survived by his loving and devoted family; his father Robert (Bea) Steele; his brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Karla Steele and their children, Kyle Steele and Megan Steele; sisters, Dawn (Rick) Kennedy, Michelle (Chris) Marino, Beth (Scott) Houck, Jennifer (Darren) Romanski; uncles, Mark (Val) Masterpole and Larry (Maria) Steele; his dear Lincoln Heights friends, Chrissy and Tracy; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Thursday, July 16, 2026 from 4-6 pm at the Rossi & Ditoro Funeral Home. Burial will be held in the Masterpole family plot at Viewland Cemetery, Rotterdam at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Richard’s memory to the Schenectady City Mission at citymission.com