A Tarentum pastor said the man whose body was found Wednesday in Bull Creek became active at BridgePoint Church several months ago and had just been baptized less than two weeks ago.
The Rev. Val Schubert of BridgePoint Church said the parish plans to hold a memorial service Sunday for Elijah Steele, 24, who she said the church considers part of its family.
“His jovial spirit and captivating smile will be forever remembered,” Schubert said, adding that Steele “delighted in sharing his faith through music each week.”
The Allegheny County medical examiner confirmed Steele’s identity Friday afternoon. His cause and manner of death have not been released.
Schubert said Steele’s sister is enroute to the area from New York.
Emergency crews removed his body from the creek after it was spotted between the Fourth Avenue bridge and a bridge that carries railroad tracks over the creek toward Fawn.
Allegheny County police had said Steele was homeless and that a friend had reported him missing Monday.
BridgePoint Church has set up a memorial on its steps at the corner of East Ninth Avenue and Corbet Street, with a photo showing Steele with his baptism certificate.
In addition to being active in the church, Schubert said, Steele was attending classes to obtain a general equivalency diploma and was working toward getting a driver’s license.
Sunday’s memorial service will be held at 11:45 a.m. on the stairs in front of the church at 400 E. 9th Ave.
“Anyone who wants to show love to this child of God is welcome to attend,” Schubert said.
