John Alexander Steel, of Newark, Delaware, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, at the age of 91. His eldest daughter, Karen, was by his side at Christiana Hospital Hospice as he departed this life on the summer solstice.

John was predeceased by his beloved companion, Paula Estep, whose loss he felt deeply. Together they shared many happy years, and he cherished becoming part of her family in the United States.

Born in East Sussex, England, John was educated in the United Kingdom and earned a degree in Science from Hatfield Polytechnic. He married and raised three children whilst embarking on a long career with Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in Welwyn, England. His work led him to Wilmington, Delaware, in the late 60s/early 70s, where he settled and made his home, his children continued their schooling in England.

John retired at the age of 55, determined to fulfil ambitious personal goals. Chief among them was cycling across America. Over the years, he completed journeys along all four sides of the United States as well as a diagonal crossing, undertaking months-long self-supported trips that required carrying all his equipment and camping along the way. He found great joy in the outdoors and was equally passionate about hiking, completing numerous trails across the United States and the United Kingdom. One of his proudest achievements was walking the entire 90-mile Hadrian’s Wall Path in England at the age of 87.

John is survived by his children, Karen, Jackie, and Simon; his eleven grandchildren; his sisters, Joy, Janet, and Lorna; and several cousins in the UK. He is also remembered fondly by his American family, Judy and Larry Hughes, and their children, grandchildren, friends and neighbours.

John will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, ingenuity, and quiet determination. His long life was marked by curiosity, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors, family, and lifelong learning. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will take place on Friday, July 24, 2026 at Beeson Funeral Home, 2053 Pulaski Highway, Newark, Delaware from 10 to 11:00 am. A Memorial & Celebration of Life service for John will begin at 11:00 am. Following the service, his ashes will be placed with Paula at Graceland Memorial Park in New Castle, Delaware

John was a supporter of the Sierra Club through their calendars; their work is to preserve & protect the planet. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made via their website: www.sierraclub.org if you so wish.