Karstens, Eli Eric Eugene

Eli Eric Eugene Karstens received his angel wings on Saturday, March 30, 2013, at his home in Cedar Rapids surrounded by friends and family. Eli was born in Iowa City on Sept. 30, 2011, to Adam Karstens and Emily Obert. He was baptized on March 18, 2012.

Eli was diagnosed with pineal anlage, a rare form of aggressive brain cancer in March 2012. His caregivers at St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn., helped to bless his family with another year of smiles, dimples and sweet laughter. Eli was the happiest around his big brother, Jude, age 9.

Eli was preceded in death by many great-grandparents and other family members who welcomed this beautiful child in Heaven.

He is survived by his mother, Emily Obert; father, Adam Karstens; big brother, Jude Archer; and paternal grandparents, Eugene and Miriam Karstens of Clear Lake.

He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members, special friends and countless members of Team Eli who have supported and loved him throughout his journey.

Services are being arranged by Cedar Memorial in Cedar Rapids. Visitation will be from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 4, and funeral services will be held at the Chapel of Memories at Cedar Memorial at 11 a.m. Friday. A private burial and family luncheon will be held after the services.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Eli's name to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.

Online condolences can be made at .

You have touched so many hearts with your sweet smile, Eli Pie. We will always b{eli}eve!

Published in The Gazette April 2, 2013.