Douglas W. “Buddy” Steele

Douglas W. “Buddy” Steele, 69, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026, at The University of Kansas Health System. He was born on August 14, 1957, in Kansas City, Missouri and was raised in Raytown, Missouri.

Buddy will be remembered for his honorable military service, steadfast work ethic, love of the outdoors, and generous commitment to conservation. Above all, he was a devoted brother, uncle, great-uncle, and friend whose loyalty, warmth, and humor enriched the lives of those who knew him.

During his youth, Buddy spent his summers playing baseball with Raytown Little League from 1964 - 1975, primarily as a catcher. Those years held special meaning for him, particularly the opportunity to be coached by his father.

He graduated from Raytown South High School in 1975.

Following graduation, Buddy proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1975 to 1979. Assigned to 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, at Camp Pendleton, California, he served as a game warden. His military honors included the Pistol Sharpshooter Badge, Rifle Expert Badge, and Good Conduct Medal.

Upon returning to Raytown, Buddy began a long and dedicated career as a beer delivery driver. He worked for several Coors distributors, including Southside, Metro, Big Sky, and Central States. In 2015, he joined Boulevard Brewing Company, where he continued his career until his retirement in 2026.

The outdoors, and hunting in particular, held a special place in Buddy’s life. Family and friends will fondly remember his enduring enthusiasm for time in the field. He was a member of Ducks Unlimited, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and Pheasants Forever. Through volunteer service at dinners and other events, he faithfully supported these organizations’ conservation and fundraising efforts.

Buddy was preceded in death by his parents, Douglas Lee Steele and Dortha Hazel McIntire Steele.

He is survived by his sisters, Deborah Champlain and Deanna Hitchens (JG); his nephew and nieces, Ben Champlain (Kim), Beth Gray, and Brandy Champlain (Colby); and his great-nephews and great-nieces, Blake Gray, Kelsey Gray, Keylea Gray, Paden Champlain, Wyatt Champlain, and Noralee Shores.

VISITATION AND FUNERAL SERVICE

Family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Park Lawn Funeral Home, 8251 Hillcrest Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64138. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.

MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial contributions in Buddy’s honor to Blood Cancer United (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) or Ducks Unlimited.