Poochie (Wilma) Steele, age 76, of Hobart, passed away Sunday, January 23, 2022 at St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart. She was born in Gary, Indiana on October 4, 1945 to the late George and Leslie (nee Evans) Parnell.  She had special memories with her husband driving racecars and motorcycles, dancing, and going camping.  She loved spending the holidays with all of her family.  She enjoyed Hallmark movies and loved watching General Hospital.  Poochie adored spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren and will be remembered for being full of life.

She is survived by her children: James "Bubby" (Anita) Steele, Sheila (Troy) Brownfield, five grandchildren: J.R., Dewayne (Elizabeth), Rusty (Lauren), Amanda, Abby (Austin); six great grandchildren: Jordan; Tucker, Cooper, and Sawyer, Adalynn and Tinley; several nieces & nephews; two special breakfast buddies; and many other loving family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 49 years, James P. Steele; daughter, Penny Steele; three brothers, Ray, Jasper, and Wayne Parnell; three sisters, Brenda, Jean, Lavonda; and her parents.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff on 6 West at St. Mary Medical Center for the care they gave their mother/nana.

A funeral service will be held Friday, January 28, 2022 at 9:30 am at Rees Funeral Home, 600 W. Old Ridge Rd., Hobart, with Sonny Ibarra officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Portage. Visitation will be Thursday, January 27, 2022 from 2-8 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel. For more information, please call 219-942-2109. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.ReesFuneralHomes.com.