William Boyd Steele

In Loving Memory of William Boyd Steele

William Boyd Steele, known as Boyd, was born to Francis and Jean (Griffith) Steele in Dehue, West Virginia, in 1939. He peacefully departed this world on November 16, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family after bravely fighting an 18-month battle with myelodysplastic syndrome.

Boyd was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Steele, sister-in-law Betty Steele-Roop, sister Katherine Dillon, and son-in-law Tony Lapidakis.

He is survived by his daughter Kim (Dave) Dietz, grandchildren Stacie (Dan Smith) Hauswirth, Nik (Angelee) Lapidakis, great-grandchildren Noah Hauswirth, Johnny Hauswirth, and Ian Lapidakis, and great-great-grandchildren John "Leo" Hauswirth, Marli Holland, and Baby Aria Lapidakis on the way.

Surviving son Walter Boyd (Shelby) Steele, their daughter Amanda (Jake) Cramer, and their grandchildren Christina, Wyatt, Jakey, and Violet.

He is also survived by his partner of 37 years, Marge Klein, and her children Blaine and Christy (Paul) Wronkovich, along with their children Kylee Tenney, Molly, and Jacob Klein.

Boyd took great pride in his lifelong membership with the Greater Akron Motorcycle Club. He retired from Carpenters Local 639 and was a dedicated member of W Edwin Palmer Lodge for over 50 years.

Known for his love of family, going to the races, and Harley rides. Boyd cherished trips to West Virginia, Myrtle Beach, and Daytona. For 58 years, he didn't miss a single bike week! At home, he found joy in watching birds from his window.

Fond memories of Christmas mornings, vacations, puzzle nights, motorcycle rides, and backyard dinners will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved him. Boyd, Dad, Papal, Poppy, we will miss you every day, but your spirit will live on in our homes and in the town you helped shape.

Boyd's legacy is woven into the fabric of Akron, evident in the homes of his extended family and various projects throughout the city. Notably, he and Don Drumm installed the iconic rocks above Einstein Bagel's door on the Wallhaven building. His craftsmanship is proudly displayed in the ceilings of Copley High School Auditorium and EJ Thomas Hall.

In appreciation of the compassionate care provided during Boyd's journey, the family extends heartfelt thanks to the dedicated nurses of Parkview Pavilion Infusion Center and Summa Home Healthcare. Additionally, gratitude is extended to the caring team at Summa Home Hospice for their support during Boyd's final days. Your kindness and professionalism brought comfort to Boyd and solace to our hearts.

A celebration of Boyd's life will be held in the Spring at the Greater Akron Motorcycle Club. Until we meet again, Happy Trails, Boyd -we love you!!