Published: 3 Sep 2017
It's my sad duty to let you know Comrade Jim Steele has just passed away in Brisbane following a recent fall . He was with his immediate family and retired Presiding Officer Mick Carr.
Comrade Steele was a legend in the waterfront industry given his principled and enormous dedication to the Seamen's Union and subsequently the MUA where he was the joint Presiding Officer on amalgamation
Jim held many positions in the union, originally in Melbourne and then subsequently as the SUA Branch Secretary in Queensland and MUA joint Branch Secretary in Brisbane
Tough, wise, progressive and experienced Jim was one of the long term anchors of the senior leadership of the SUA and was pivotal in shaping the strength solidarity and comradeship in the MUA in the unions important first years following the merger as joint Presiding Officer together with Jim Donavon
His dry humour , great respect from the rank and file and socialist commitment ensured great love and loyalty from all who worked with him and knew him
Jim recently turned 90 and his passing punctuates part the end of a generation of trade unionists on the waterfront that won conditions, fought campaigns and dedicated their lives to the achievement of international peace progress and socialism for all working men and women in general and maritime workers in particular
I have spoken to comrade Carnegie and we will keep you informed of the details of Comrade Steele's funeral details in Brisbane. I have also extended our deepest condolences to Jim's family on behalf of our union
Vale Jim Steele , comrade , friend and trusted brother to so many now at peace and rest after a long voyage
Yours in unity
Paddy
Funeral Details for Jim Steele
THE FUNERAL SERVICE for Jim Steele will be held at Mt Thompson Crematorium, East Chapel, 329 Nursery Road, Holland Park at 1.30pm on Friday 8 September followed by a wake to be held at the Mt Gravatt Hotel, 1315 Logan Road, Mt Gravatt.
There will be transport leaving the union rooms at 12.30pm sharp for those wishing to attend the service. The Branch office will be closed at 12.00 noon on Friday for the service.
