Only son of Mr. and Mrs. Guy Steele. Moved to Golden at age 2. Worked for 11 years at Coors Porcelain plant and then worked at Remington Arms plant. Also was worker who helped construct Ralston Dam. Enlisted March 20, 1944 and trained for 17 weeks as a cannoneer at Camp Roberts, California and graduated August 17, 1944. Sent to Fort Meade, Maryland and Camp Swift, Texas, and joined Company D, 86th Mountain Infantry, 10th Mountain Division. Went overseas on December 15, 1944 and fought in 3 major battles, receiving Purple Heart for wounds received in action March 2, 1945. Husband of wife Mary and father of Melvin Jr., Iris Elaine and Duane Steele. Awarded Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, Infantry Badge, Good Conduct, and Two major Battle Stars.