Hamilton lost one of its brightest young lights on September 5, 2026, when Terrance Kersteins passed away unexpectedly at just 18 years old. Born and raised right here in town on May 26, 2008, Terrance grew up with a warmth and energy that drew people toward him everywhere he went. His sudden passing leaves his parents, Kim and Peter Kersteins, along with his brother Joey, facing an unimaginable loss that has shaken everyone who knew them.
From his early days at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Elementary School through his high school years at Cathedral High, Terrance built tight friendships that lasted. Teachers and classmates knew him as the kid who could light up any room with a genuine smile and an easy laugh. He possessed a natural knack for making people feel included, whether they were sitting next to him in class or running cross-country trails on a crisp autumn morning.
Sports were a huge part of who Terrance was, but hockey held a truly special spot in his heart. He spent years on the ice, lacing up his skates for early morning practices and hard-fought games. For Terrance, though, it was never just about the scoreboard. He loved the noise of the rink, the locker room jokes, and the quiet bonds built between teammates who became like brothers over long seasons.
When he stepped off the ice, music was where he poured his energy. Terrance spent hours singing, strumming his guitar, and playing his favorite songs for anyone willing to listen. Music was how he connected with family and friends on quiet weekend afternoons, bringing people together around simple tunes and shared laughs in the living room.
At home, Terrance was deeply attached to his family and his loyal dog, Remi. Remi was his constant shadow, sticking by his side whether Terrance was practicing guitar riffs or unwinding after a long day of sports. Beyond his immediate home, he remained close with his extended family, including his grandmother Donna, his grandfather John, and his uncle Martin and aunt Chrissy.
Terrance also cared deeply about lending a hand to folks around town. He gave his time to volunteer with the Canadian Council of the Blind, showing a level of empathy and generosity that is rare for someone his age. He believed in showing up for people, plain and simple, and he never hesitated to put his energy toward helping others lead better lives.
Family and friends will gather to remember Terrance on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the L.G. Wallace Funeral Home on 151 Ottawa Street North in Hamilton. Visitation runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with memorial speeches starting at 11:30 a.m. and light refreshments to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations go to CNIB Guide Dogs, honoring a cause that meant the world to an extraordinary young man whose memory will live on in Hamilton forever.
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