Gwendolyn Steele-Nielsen

Gwendolyn Maxine Steele-Nielsen passed away May 16, 2024, at the age of 78.  She was born January 9, 1946, in Kalamazoo, MI.  She was the daughter of Philip and Alice (Bishop) Steele.   Attending Mattawan and Schoolcraft schools, she graduated with the SHS Class of 1964.

Gwen led a career helping others in social work with positions at Senior Services, Family & Children’s Services and the Social Security Administration.  As a non-traditional student, she received her bachelor’s degree from Nazareth College in 1991.

Gwen doted on her grandchildren and was active with her children in Cub Scouts, 4-H and school field trips.  She had a passion for wildflowers and was seldom caught without a trowel, shovel and bucket in her trunk.  Relocating resplendent roadside treasures to the backyard was one of her true pleasures.

Gwen is survived by her husband of 32 years, Wendell Nielsen, two sons Brian (Laura) Houts and Doug (Masako) Houts, two stepdaughters: Beth (Bill) Stevenson and Cory (Chris) Gamble and four grandchildren: Tyler Skriba, Mei, Julian and Emi Houts.  She is also survived by four sisters: Naomi Gean (Larry) Franklin, Linda Holdeman, Becky Terry, and Yvonne (David) Richards and brother Harry Steele.

Gwen was preceded in death by her parents Philip and Alice Steele and brothers Philip and James Steele.

A memorial celebration of life service for Gwen will be held on July 3 rd from 2:30-4:30PM at Radiant Church, 8157 East DE Avenue in Richland, MI 49083 (use rear entrance to church)

2:30PM Visitation, Remembrance at 3:30PM.

Those who wish may make contributions to the Dementia Society of America or the Wildflower Association of Michigan.

While visiting Gwen’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.

The family is being assisted by Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home; 120 S. Woodhams St. Plainwell, MI 49080 (269-685-5881).