TURNER — Nancy Violette Steele, 58, of Turner, passed away Thursday, July 19, due to an accident at the “Ivy Cottage.”

She was born in Lewiston, Nov. 4, 1953, to Henry and Dorothy (Dionne) Violette. Nancy attended local schools, graduating from Edward Little High School in 1972. She went on to further her education graduating from the University of Maine system receiving her Bachelor of Arts Degree.

On Dec. 26,1975, she married her high school sweetheart, Richard Steele, at St. Philip’s Church in Auburn. They were happily married for more than 36 years.

Together they worked and raised their young family in the Turner area. Nancy was an entrepreneur who developed many popular and successful businesses. She was best known for “The Ivy Cottage” which was located in The Auburn Mall and on the Auburn Road in Turner. She was a very talented florist, seamstress, knitter and gardener who always shared those gifts with various charitable organizations in the Twin Cities.

She had an extensive social network of friends from all walks of life and was particularly close to her circle of friends affectionately known as “The Hen Party.”

She was a member of The Turner Natural History Club, past board of director member of Mechanics Savings Bank and dedicated member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, St. Philip’s Church, where she received great pleasure in working with her mother, Dorothy, on various church fairs and fundraisers.

Along with her work ethic, Nancy was known for her generosity and caring heart and she gave much time to the community. Most importantly, she cherished her time with her family, never missing a family event, especially her children’s ski races. Recently, she loved playing with her granddaughter, Calee, in the garden and making her colorful tutus.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Richard Steele of Turner; her two children, Zachary R. Steele and his partner, Paige Rutherford, of Wells and Emily H. Libby and her husband, Travis, of Turner; her mother, Dorothy Violette of Auburn; one grandchild, Calee Anne Libby; two brothers, Thomas Violette and his wife, Deborah and Kenneth Violette and his wife, Cynthia; one sister, Eileen Pelletier and her husband, Paul; and cousins, nieces, nephews and godmother to many.

She was predeceased by her father, Henry L. Violette; and her daughter, Amanda Rose Steele.

You may share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the Steele family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.

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