Tributes have been paid to former councillor and South Uist community landlord director, Donnie Steele who has died after a battle with cancer.
Mr Steele was the manager of Benbecula Airport, taking up the post in 2023 after 27 years with QinetiQ at the rocket range.
He served as councillor for five years for the Barraigh, Bhatarsaigh, Eirisgeigh agus Uibhist a Deas ward from 2012 to 2017.
During that period he was a member of the Western Isles Licensing Board, the Education and Children Services Committee as well as the Environmental and Protective Services Committee taking an interest in not just his own ward but also matters impacting the Western Isles as a whole.
A family announcement said: “It's with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear brother, son, husband, father, uncle and friend to many, Donnie Steele.
“Donnie fought a short but admirable battle which touched many. He will be sorely missed near and far as his beauty and kindness had such a wide reach.”
Donnie’s remains will be received into St Peters Church, Daliburgh, on Thursday evening with his funeral mass being held at 12.30pm on Friday 14th, followed by burial at Hallan cemetery.
The family have suggested people - if they wish - could offer a donation to MacMillan
Cancer Support instead of purchasing flowers.
Kenny Macleod, convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, said: “Having worked alongside Donnie in the comhairle chamber I know how passionate he was about his community and the improvement of services to Uist and Barra.
“In roles as a councillor, community councillor and director of Stòras Uibhist he has left behind a legacy of community work that will have a significant and lasting impact.
“Donnie’s passion for South Uist was particularly evident in the successful campaign, which he led, to gain official recognition for the South Uist flag.
“Donnie was a keen footballer and alongside his brothers was part of the Southend team that reached the Highland Amateur Cup final in 1993.
“Our thoughts are with all those who knew Donnie, particularly his wife, Morag Ann, his sons Donald and Levi, his mum Jessie and his three brothers Angus, Archie and Iain.”
The flag at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Balivanich office was flown at half-mast
on Friday and will be hoisted again to mark Donnie’s funeral this Friday.
Donnie joined Stòras Uibhist five years ago. The organisation said it was “deeply saddened” by his passing.
“Donnie joined the board of SnBM in 2020 where he played a crucial role in guiding us through the challenges of the Covid pandemic.
“As chair of Lochboisdale Development Limited, Donnie earned the respect of everyone he worked with. He was instrumental in the planning, fundraising and construction of the Marloch memorial in the Gateway Garden.
“Donnie's calm and intelligent presence was a constant source of strength at board meetings. His love and passion for South Uist was always evident, particularly his involvement in the recognition of the South Uist flag and Tartan, which gained official recognition on the 24th of May 2017.
“We will miss his fortitude, his humour, and his commitment to these Islands. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Tributes paid to community activist and former councillor
10 March 2025
