Karen Sue Steele

Karen Sue Steele (1955 - 2023)

Karen Sue Steele, wife, mother, horsewoman and friend, passed away at her home on July 11, 2023. She was 68 years old.

Born in Fort Dodge, Iowa on January 7th, 1955, Karen was the daughter of Richard and Donna (Greiman) Finders. She is survived by two sisters: Leiann Tomanini and Melissa Spicer.

Karen spent most of her life in Arizona. She married the love of her life, Thomas Craig Steele, on August 11th, 1973. Together they raised two children, Dawn and Amber, and built a strong partnership that lasted for almost 50 years.

Karen was a talented artist and could always be found creating beautiful items in many different mediums: with a pencil, clay, paint, or paper-mache, her distinctive creations were always noteworthy. She found solace and inspiration in the beauty of colors, shapes and nature that surrounded her. Her individual creativity knew no bounds, and she used her artistic talents to express her unique perspective on life.

As an avid horsewoman she appreciated the freedom she felt on the back of these majestic animals. Later in life, as her health issues created challenges that inhibited her ability to ride, she still embraced the connection she had to these animals by breeding quality quarter horses. She and Craig built a reputable legacy and have made many connections and friends in the horse world.

Karen Sue Steele leaves behind a legacy of love and creativity. She is survived by her devoted husband: Thomas Craig Steele; her two Daughters: Dawn Alford (Richard) and Amber Cates-Anderson (Benjay); five grandchildren and five great grandchildren; and a large circle of extended family and friends.

Visitations to celebrate Karen's life will be held on Thursday July 27th, 2023, from 1pm to 4pm at Ruffner-Wakelin Bradshaw Chapel 8480 E. Valley Road, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314. Graveside – Tuesday August 1st, 2023, 10:00 am at Monticello Cemetery 197 South Main Street Monticello, Utah 84535.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Judes Children Hospital or the NCHA Foundation

Karen's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace, forever surrounded by the beauty she cherished in life.