TCU/IAM is sad to announce the passing of retired National Vice President David L. Steele. Brother Steele was a proud TCU member, who hired out with the Southern Railroad in 1969 in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He soon became involved in the union and was elected Local Chairman of Lodge 24 in 1976. In 1984 he was elected as General Secretary-Treasurer of then System Board No. 96 which represented all members of the Norfolk Southern properties. In 1987 he was elected as General Chairman of System Board No. 96 and was elected to the TCU Executive Council as National Vice President on August 1, 2006. David retired from TCU in February 2014.
During his tenure, David’s jurisdiction included assisting Units 96, 86, and 3 and the TCU/IAM Manpower Training Department (now TSD). David was a talented leader, creative writer, skilled negotiator, and a tireless advocate for our members every single day.
TCU National President Maratea spoke of Brother Steele, “Dave was a true leader who paid attention to every detail. His sense of humor and quick wit gave him a unique ability to quickly develop relationships with anyone he met. He truly cared about people and wanted to help our members. More than that though, he was my friend. He will be greatly missed.”
“I had the opportunity and privilege of working with David from 1999 until he retired. Whether it was in the office or on the road David was always working on behalf of our members. He was a great union leader and a real teacher. Like many others in our union, I learned so much from him. David was a perfectionist and always gave his best in representing our members. So many of our members’ working conditions and lives are better because of his work. David was a true friend and I will miss him. Myself and TCU send the warmest wishes of comfort for his family,” said TCU National Secretary-Treasurer Stan Boyd.
Brother Steele was living in Jacksonville, Florida with his wife Clara at the time of his passing. Our entire TCU family offers our deepest condolences to Clara and the entire Steele family. Rest in Peace Brother Steele.