Steve P. Karels Sr., 64 of Granite City passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 19, 2020 at his home.
Steve was born on November 5, 1955 in Chicago, Illinois; the son of the late John and Opal Karels Sr. Steve was a truck driver for McKenzie Trucking in Granite City, an aviation mechanic and served as a police officer for Forsyth County, North Carolina. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and was a member of the National Rifle Association. In his free time, Steve enjoyed his days of fishing and spending time with his family. Steve will be remembered for his “Jokester” personality and all the special times he shared with his family and friends.
Steve is survived by and will be missed by his wife; Juanita (Spence) Karels, whom he married on April 7, 2001; children, Steve P. Karels Jr. of Tabaccoville, NC, Laura and Mark Moore of Marthasville, MO, Sarah and Scott Carney of Troy, IL; grandchildren, Jordan Groves, Kassidy Groves, Kylee Hopping, Brent Moore, Bryan Moore, Dylan Carney, Claire Carney; sister-in-law, Linda Spence and his doggie, Sher.
In addition to his parents, Steve was preceded in death by all of his brothers and sisters.
In celebration of Steve’s life, a private family visitation will be held on Monday, March 23, 2020 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City. Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon with full military rites.
