By David Robert | Published: June 25, 2026 | Source: Marshall Koehn Facebook post
IOWA CITY, IOWA — Kari Jean Pekar, a beloved nurse, former University of Iowa volleyball player, devoted wife, and mother, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, at the age of 33 following a courageous battle with cancer. Her family announced her passing in a heartfelt statement, remembering her as a woman whose kindness, faith, and unwavering love touched countless lives.
Life and Legacy
Born on March 16, 1993, in Iowa City, Iowa, Kari Pekar brought joy and light to those around her from an early age. The youngest of four daughters, she was known for her compassionate spirit, infectious smile, and remarkable ability to make everyone feel valued and loved.
Kari graduated from Iowa City High School in 2011 before attending the University of Iowa, where she competed as a member of the Iowa Hawkeyes volleyball program. She earned a degree in Human Physiology and Health in 2015, reflecting her passion for helping others. She later completed her nursing degree at Kirkwood Community College in 2018 and dedicated her professional life to caring for patients with empathy and compassion.
Beyond her professional achievements, Kari’s greatest joy was her family. She married her husband, Peter Pekar, in May 2022 after the couple met and fell in love while attending the University of Iowa. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, and devotion. In October 2024, they welcomed their daughter, Ivy Jean, whose arrival brought Kari immense happiness and strength during her health journey.
Family members described Kari as someone who embraced life’s simple pleasures. She cherished holiday traditions, especially Christmas, loved traveling with family and friends, enjoyed Hallmark movies, and treasured every opportunity to create meaningful memories with those she loved.
“Though her journey was far too short, the impact of her life is immeasurable. She loved deeply, laughed often, gave generously, and faced life’s greatest challenges with grace and courage.”
Kari is survived by her husband, Peter; daughter, Ivy Jean; parents, Brent and Sonia Mellor; sisters, Lindsay Kain, Megan Carrillo, and Signe Coombs; parents-in-law, Jim and Lisa Pekar; sisters-in-law, Sarah Neuhauser, Abigail Kosho, and Elizabeth Martinez-Ortiz; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Her family expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers received throughout her battle with cancer.
Funeral and Memorial Information
According to the family’s official announcement, a Celebration of Life will be held in Kari’s honor:
- Location: Brookfield, Wisconsin
- Date & Time: Thursday, July 30, 2026
- Protocol: Family, friends, former teammates, colleagues, and community members are invited to gather in remembrance of Kari’s life and legacy. Additional service details may be shared by the family.
Editorial Note: This report has been compiled using verified statements released by the Pekar and Mellor families. At the time of publication, no additional information regarding funeral arrangements had been publicly released beyond the announced Celebration of Life service.