On Wednesday, August 7, 2024, Acey Van Steel went to be with his Lord and Savior and received his eternal angel wings.
He was born on September 19, 1950, to Gaylon Sr. and Audrey Steel of Abilene, Texas. His oldest brother of four, Gaylon Jr, survives him.
Acey would have been 74 this September but passed doing what he loved spending time in the water.
Acey’s love for his family was unwavering. He leaves behind five children: Kimberly & husband Allen Slater of Denton, Austin & wife Nikki Steel of Hurst, Todd & wife Stacy Prest of Granbury, Kendra & husband Tyray Hoschler of Godley, and Krystal Lauren Burgess & husband Ricky of Arlington.
Acey was known as Poppy to his beloved grandchildren Derek, Danielle, Kaylin, Haley, Taylor, Chloe, Madison, Caleb, Hays, and Norah.
He was also the Great Poppy of Brookelyn, Jadyn, Logan, Cade, J.T., Kaleb, and Daniel. Acey was also the uncle of many nieces and nephews.
Acey was best known for his hilarious one-liners and quick-witted humor, passion for fishing, early morning bird watching, love of the water, love of his family, and pancakemaking skills for his kiddos. He took great pride in knowing that he passed along the values of honesty, integrity, and respect to all his children and loved ones. Acey had a loving and generous spirit and would do anything for those he loved including moving to another state to watch one of his granddaughters play college softball. Every person he came in contact with loved and respected him.
Acey's life was filled with remarkable achievements.
He was a golden glove boxer, an Abilene HS and Hardin- Simmons University graduate, a scuba enthusiast, 33rd Degree Mason, and a Texas DPS license and weight State Trooper. His dedication and bravery were recognized when he was awarded a Medal of Merit in 1985 for his outstanding performance during a life-threatening situation during a vehicletrain derailment and explosion. We can all be proud of his legacy of courage and dedication.
Acey’s passing has left a profound void in our lives.
His absence is deeply felt, and the memories of his love and laughter will forever be cherished. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gaylon Sr. and Audrey Steel, his brothers, Terry and Aurbin, and the love of his life and soulmate, Paula Kay. The loss of such a beloved figure is a deep wound that will take time to heal.
Celebration of Life will be held on October 12, 2024, at Wiley Funeral Home in Granbury.
