Ron Steele Obituary
Slippery Rock University Remembers Ron Steele
The Slippery Rock University Athletics Department and The Rock football program are mourning the loss of Ron Steele, a beloved figure in the community and a longtime football equipment manager, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 84.
Ron Steele was a cornerstone of the Slippery Rock community, dedicating his life to public service. His roles included serving as a borough police officer, the chief of the Slippery Rock Volunteer Fire Department, and the mayor of Slippery Rock. He continued his commitment to local governance by serving on the Borough Council until his passing.
Steele’s contributions to the Slippery Rock community extended onto the university campus as well. He worked as a police officer for seven years before becoming the director of campus safety, a role he held until his retirement in 2001.
Upon retiring from campus safety, Steele embarked on a new chapter in his career. His longstanding friendship with former Slippery Rock head football coach George Mihalik, which began while Mihalik was developing the safety management program at SRU, led Steele to join the football staff as the equipment manager in 2001. He stepped into the role to relieve former offensive coordinator Vic Campagna, who was handling equipment responsibilities in addition to his coaching duties.
is Slippery Rock A Party School?
For 21 years, Steele managed the football equipment, organizing uniforms, shoulder pads, helmets, and more. He mentored student interns and ensured that both practices and game days ran smoothly. His dedication earned him the affectionate nickname “Papa Steele” from the players.
“Papa Steele was the go-to person for any equipment issues,” said head coach Shawn Lutz. “He was an invaluable part of our program. Even after his retirement, he continued to attend practices and games, maintaining his connections with our players. His impact on our team was profound, and he will be deeply missed.”
During his tenure as equipment manager, Steele contributed to The Rock football program’s success, helping the team secure seven PSAC West titles and six NCAA Division II national playoff appearances.
What is Slippery Rock University Known For? is SRU A Good University?
A 1957 graduate of Slippery Rock High School, Steele spent his entire life in the Slippery Rock area, sharing his passion for the town and the university with everyone he met.
Lastly, visitation will be held at Smith Funeral Home, 421 New Castle Street, Slippery Rock, PA. On Wednesday, June 26 from 7-9 p.m. and Thursday, June 27 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. A funeral service is scheduled for Friday, June 28. At 11 a.m. at Center Presbyterian Church, 211 Center Street, Slippery Rock, PA.
SRU mourns passing of Ron Steele – Slippery Rock University Athletics (rockathletics.com)
