Birth date: Jan 25, 1941 Death date: Dec 18, 2020
Cornelius W. “Neil” Karel, age 79, passed away Friday, December 18, 2020. He was born January 25, 1941 in Muskegon to Henry and Martha (Hopma) Karel Sr. Neil was a U.S. Navy Veteran and served in the Navy for 20 years as an aviati Read Obituary
My heart aches for Sharon and Neil’s family. I got to know Neil through Cadets as he was one of my counselors during my entire time as a Cadet. He was a great man of faith and a compassionate mentor. I moved away from Fifth Church, but every time I came back to play trumpet Neil would tell me, “Thanks for playing Jake. Man, I love hearing them horns.” I wish I could have played for his earthly ears one more time. But I know he’ll hear “Living For Jesus” and “Eternal Father, Strong To Save” whenever I play them. He is missed.
Sharon, Carlena and family, I wish I could hug all of you right now and whisper that it will be okay. Our God is in control. You have our deepest sympathies. Neil will be missed, but he has earned his crown. Ed and Marcia Wilkes
My sincerest condolences to the family. I'll always remember Neil's infectious laugh. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Lynn Young
Sharon and family we are so sorry for your loss. I enjoyed picking blue berries in his fields, I think I ate more than I put in my pail. When coming into church Sunday morning he was always smiling & welcoming everyone. A beautiful smile & funny laugh he had. He was a good Cadet counselor for many boys including ours. May God be with you and your family during this difficult time.
Our sincere condolences to Sharon and Neil's family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Carlena and Christopher, so very sorry to hear of your dad's passing. Many prayers for comfort and peace for your family.
Amy (Grant) Johnson
Sharon, Carlena and family, we are so sorry for you loss! Neil was such a kind man. You have our prayers and sympathies!
Carlena, I am so sorry about the loss of your dad. I always loved chatting with him in the church office. Such a good, kind man.
Janis Milliron
Uncle Neil was a great man with a gentle kindness about him. He treated everyone as if they were family. He will be missed. My deepest condolences to Chris and Carlena and the rest of the family. May Uncle Neil Rest In Peace.
My favorite memory of " Uncle" Neil was one winter after cadets he did donuts in the parking lot of Fifth Reformed with Chris and I in an old stick shift pick up.
Denny Young
