Arnold J Steedman

Arnold J. Steedman “A True Eastsider” age 93 of East Toledo passed away peacefully Monday October 14, 2024. Arnold was born to James and Irene (Smyth) Steedman on January 23, 1931, in Toledo, Ohio. He was a proud 1949 graduate of Waite High School where he played football, baseball, and swam. Arnold stayed connected to Waite by attending every function possible including the Purple and Gold Ball, the 100th anniversary, all his class reunions, the Indian Uprising, helping on the scholarship committee, and Boy’s State. After high school, he served our country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Arnold served at Fort Drum in the 655th Aircraft and Control Warning Squadron in Watertown, New York.

He married the love of his life Judith (Geisel) with whom he shared 53 years of marriage and their beautiful family until her passing in 2011. Arnold worked as a millman and truck driver with Starr Lumber for over 30 years until his retirement. After he retired, he volunteered for over 20 years for the Veteran’s Administration driving veterans from Toledo to Ann Arbor for treatment sometimes 2 to 3 times per week. As a lifetime member, Arnold was active in the American Legion for 61 years. He served in every position at the Arthur Daly Post 334 and was the former Lucas County Commander of the American Legion. He was proud to plant flags at cemeteries every Memorial Day, only missing this year, and attended any and all American Legion events including serving on the state softball commission, Father’s Day chicken cookouts, Friday night dinners, and the state bowling tournament. Arnold was also active in the 40 et 8 Voiture and was proud to participate on the Honor Flight.  He was the recipient of the East Toledo Family Center Distinguished Citizen Award.

Arnold enjoyed collecting military awards and patches. He could be found perusing flea markets for the elusive medal or patch. He also played softball for the Neighborhood Inn and bowled in leagues at the Toledo Sports Center. Arnold’s great grandchildren lovingly called him Papa Pancakes. Until a few weeks back, he could be found every morning having coffee at McDonald’s at 9:00 a.m. where many stories were shared with friends.

Arnold is survived by his children Nan (Mike) Johnson, Tom (Kristine) Steedman, Tim ( Kim) Steedman, Joe (Karen) Steedman; brother Jimmy Steedman; grandchildren Tyler (Grace), Michael(Rose), Josh (Amanda Springer), Tess (Cody) Abbey, Tim, Jake, and D.J.; special niece Lisa O’Brien; 11 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Along with his wife, he was preceded in death by his daughter Janis, brothers Kenny and Bob, and daughter-in-law Julie (Meek).

A visitation will be held at Freck Funeral Chapel 1155 S Wynn Rd in Oregon, Ohio on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, from 2 until 7 p.m. where military honors will be rendered at 6 p.m. Memorial contributions are appreciated to Waite High School Scholarship Fund. The family wishes to thank the morning coffee crew and employees of McDonald’s for their friendship.