Peter Karelse (Pete)

Peter Karelse, affectionately known as Pete, passed away on July 5, 2026, at the age of 88, surrounded by his family at his home in El Salvador. Born in 1938 in Holland, Pete later settled in Sarnia, Ontario, where he built a lasting legacy. He is survived by his beloved wife, Celina, and their children, Laurie, Cheryl, Kim, Jeff, and Pam, as well as 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Pete was a dedicated carpenter and contractor in the Sarnia area for over 60 years and was an active member of the Evangelical Missionary Church in Canada and the United States. He had a deep passion for missionary work, spending many winters building churches, schools, and homes in Africa, and South and Central America. A memorial service was held in El Salvador to honor his life.