Rene Valerie Van Neste
Rene Valeire Van Neste, a man who devoted his life to his family, and the Lord, died on Monday, March 31, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Rene, 81, of Charlotte, was born on January 3, 1944, in Albion, the son of Gerald and Celina (Martin) Van Neste. On December 14, 1968, Rene married Patricia Karpi and together they devoted their life to one another. Rene was a lifelong learner attending Michigan State University and later earning an Associate’s Degree after the family relocated to Florida. In his younger years Rene worked on the family potato and onion farm in Mulliken. He loved being able to work alongside his family on the farm. Rene was a caregiver, he cared for his parents when their health declined. He also cared for his wife for several years. Rene learned the skills needed to tend to Patricia’s needs in her final days. Most recently Rene worked at Meijer in Charlotte. He loved his work at Meijer because he was able to talk with customers. Rene worked at Meijer for 22 years before his retirement in 2022.
From his years of working on the family farm, Rene took on a passion for anything John Deere. He also enjoyed steam engines, being a civil war reenactor with his brothers, and trips to Nevada to hunt for the perfect rocks to tumble and turn into beautiful jewelry. Rene could also be found cruising around his yard on his zero turn. Above all Rene was strong in his faith. He was a longtime member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte, and a proud Knights of Columbus 4th degree member. Along with his wife, Patricia, they made sure their children were raised in a strong Catholic faith and tradition. However, once his grandchildren were born, they became his biggest passion.
Rene is survived by his children, Steven (Maureen) Van Neste, Lisa (Brad) Fears; grandchildren, Jeff, Mae, and Zachary; and several extended family members. He was predeceased by his wife, Patricia; siblings, Germanie Suurs, Gerald Van Neste, and Roy Van Neste; and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Rene’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Wednesday, April 2, 2025, from 5-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. A funeral mass was held on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Rene’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Mary Catholic Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.