Whitney Joy Steele, age 5, of North Platte passed away November 24, 2018 at Children’s Hospital in Omaha.

Whitney was born on March 26, 2013 in North Platte to Michael and Colleen (Sinsel) Steele. Whitney was baptized in Christ on May 12, 2013.

With Whitney’s passing we remind others that her time with us is to be celebrated, thanking God for the gift of life and assurance of eternal life with Christ. As a family, we have been able to create wonderful memories and it has been a privilege to be her parents. We are so thankful Whitney’s sister Shelby and brothers Benjamin and Seth knew her, and they will hold dear the memory of Whitney’s spunky personality.

Whitney’s life would seem too short, but those touched by her, understand that the quality of existence far exceeds quantity of time which you live.  Although Whitney’s different abilities challenged her, she possessed strength and perseverance. She taught us each day is a blessing and an opportunity to create lasting memories. She could spend hours rocking in her favorite chair, while cuddling close to those she loved. She enjoyed the sound of Velcro, paper ripping, zippers and reading her favorite book, “Down on the Farm.” Her infectious smile, belly laugh and head of curls melted our hearts.  A sign of her love to her family and friends was a pat on the shoulder or a “love” on their necks.

Whitney’s maternal grandparents were her adoring caregivers two days a week, and they will remain forever changed by her love. Whitney was involved with Early Development, and a student at Kids First Preschool where she was cherished by her teachers, classmates, therapists, and para educator Rhonda Richman. Whitney encountered many wonderful physicians especially Kathy Lopez and Grishma Parikh, and numerous other Children’s Hospital and Boys Town doctors.

Whitney is survived by her parents, Mike and Colleen Steele of North Platte; sister, Shelby of North Platte; brothers, Benjamin, and Seth both of North Platte; grandparents, Loren and Marilyn Sinsel of North Platte, and David and Shirley Steele of Lexington; great-grandparents, Bonnie Strumpler of Broken Bow, and Polly Steele of Bates City, Missouri; uncles and aunts, Brent Sinsel of Sutherland, and Daniel and Raconda Steele of Scottsbluff; cousins, Jackson and Issac Sinsel, and Taedyn, Sydney, Reigan, Juelle, and Cade Steele; numerous other family members; and many friends.

Memorials may be made in her name and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 29, 2018 at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church with the Reverend Bob Deardoff officiating.  Burial will follow at Floral Lawns Memorial Gardens.  Visitation will be Wednesday from 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. with the family receiving friends 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.