Laurel Steill

Laurel L. Steill, age 81, of Columbia City, IN, passed away at 7:50 am on Friday March 4, 2022, at Majestic Care West, Fort Wayne.  Born on September 8, 1940, in Niles, Michigan, she was the daughter of William and Ruzela (Kennedy) Carlson.

Laurel attended Buchanan High School, Buchanan, MI, for two years, before moving to Whitley County in 1956.  She graduated from Columbia City Joint High School with the Class of 1958.  Laurel then attended University of St. Francis where she earned her master’s degree.  On August 10, 1968, Laurel married Nicholas Steill at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, Fort Wayne.

Laurel taught at Buchanan High School for one year before coming to Columbia City.  She worked for Whitley County Consolidated Schools as an English teacher for 38 years and was an adjunct teacher at University of St. Francis for many years.  After retirement, Laurel taught two full years at St. Francis.

Laurel was a member of St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, Columbia City.

Laurel is survived by her husband Nicholas Steill of Columbia City and a cousin William (Martha) Kennedy of Niles, MI.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

Friends may call on Wednesday March 9, 2022, from 2-4 & 6-8 pm at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, with reciting of the rosary at 1:30 pm.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Thursday March 10, 2022, at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, 315 South Line Street, Columbia City, with calling one hour prior.

Burial in Mission Hills Memorial Gardens, Niles, Michigan.

Memorial contributions in memory of Laurel may be made to Whitley County Community Foundation.

Visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family online condolences or sign the online guest register.