Rebecca Ann Karel

Rebecca Ann Karel, age 54, of Zeeland, was peacefully called home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, July 31, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Surrounded by her loving husband, children, and grandchild, her final moments were filled with them singing over her as she entered into the presence of the Lord. Becky was a devoted wife, loving mother of seven, and a proud new grandmother. She had a warm, unhurried spirit and a heart full of generosity. A natural planner and gracious host, Becky made everyone feel welcome—whether through a hug, a kind word, or a thoughtful gesture that made each of her children feel uniquely loved and valued. She was deeply relational and connected easily with others. Becky loved gathering with her family, especially around the table for meals, fellowship and games. She cherished time spent camping at the Christian Reformed Conference Grounds, swimming, relaxing by the beach or pool, enjoying sunsets, and savoring simple joys like pizza on the beach or a bonfire with loved ones. Becky graduated from Calvin College with a degree in Business Marketing and worked in both banking and payroll. Still, her greatest joy and calling was found in her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother—a title she held with pride and deep affection. She loved having meaningful conversations about faith, family, and life. Her life was marked by quiet strength, unwavering love, and a deep faith that carried her through even the hardest days She will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 31 years, Christopher; children, Jeff and Emily Karel, Dan Karel, David Karel, Katie and Landen Flippin, Matthew and Emily Karel, Abbie Karel, Bethany Karel; grandchildren, Rahab Karel, and two on the way; parents, Jerry and Shar Mannes; siblings, Jerry II and Jamie Mannes, Rachel and Chad Steenwyk, William and Tami Mannes; parents-in-law, Thomas and Wilhelmina Karel; siblings-in-law, Tom and Ruth Karel, Rachel and Theo Mol; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 5, at Chapel Pointe (Hudsonville) 3350 Baldwin St., with Rev. Michael Scout officiating. Burial at Felch Street Cemetery in Zeeland. Relatives and friends may meet the family on Monday, August 4, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Faith Hospice Trillium Woods.