James Steil, a Vero Beach businessman who once opened 14 gas stations across the Treasure Coast, died April 18, according to his obituary.
He was 92 years old.
Steil was described in the obituary as a “loving husband, father and a loyal friend to all who knew him.” A memorial service was held for Steil last Thursday at Strunk Funeral Home.
Steil, who was drafted in the U.S. Army to fight in World War II, moved to Vero Beach with his wife, Nancy Casey, and their first born child in 1954, the obit shows. Steil worked as a real estate agent and also played golf as a member of the Vero Beach Country Club.
In 1965, Steil started a chain of independent gas stations called Steil Oil Company on the Treasure Coast, his obit shows. The Vero Beach gas station, located across the street from Dyer Chevrolet, is the only one that remains open.
Steil had other passions as well.
In the mid-1970’s, Steil became interested in thoroughbred racing and breeding, his obit shows. Steil’s horses raced in Florida and other states.
Steil was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Nancy, his son Daniel, brothers Thomas and Robert and sister Ann. Steil leaves behind his sister, Mary Finn, children Casey Steil, Kathleen Lemmons, Cecilia Simons, and Elizabeth Bahl, and 14 grandchildren.