With deep sorrow and unwavering faith, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Elsa "Fina" Peets Michel, who went to be with the Lord surrounded by her closest friends and family on April 4th, 2025, at the age of 74.

Elsa was born one of 16 children on July 19, 1950, in La Romana, Dominican Republic to the late Aubrey Peets and Josepha Michel. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion and her faith in God was the foundation upon which she built her family. She immigrated to the United States at the brave age of 19, with the dream of building a better life for herself and her future family. She faced the challenges of a new land with determination, strength, and a steadfast work ethic. Her love for her family and her deep-rooted belief in hard work were the cornerstones of everything she did. She carried with her the vibrant spirit of her homeland – full of life, passion, and warmth.

She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend who dedicated her life to caring for others, especially her beloved grandson, Reini Perez, whom she raised with unshakable love, strength, and wisdom. She ensured that her grandson was raised with strong values, compassion, and unconditional love. She sacrificed without hesitation, loved without limits, and guided others with wisdom that only comes from a life well lived.

Elsa began her culinary journey at the tender age of 7, mastering flavors, techniques, and dishes. From family meals to large gatherings, she shared her passion for cooking with everyone around her. Her kitchen was her sanctuary, a place where she created not only delicious meals but memories that will live on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to sit at her table. Her love for food was not just about the dishes she made, but about bringing people together and nurturing them with her warmth and care. She had an incredible ability to make even the simplest meal feel special and much more than just nourishment - it was a reminder of the unity and love that she so effortlessly created. Crowd favorites were her Dominican chofan (fried rice), pasteles en hoja (Dominican tamales), and pudín de pan (bread pudding).

As a faithful member of Salem Free Methodist Church, Elsa found joy in her service to the Lord, whether through prayer, teaching, or offering support to those in need. Her deep love for Christ and her unwavering trust in His plan were an inspiration to everyone around her. Her home always had an open-door policy, where everyone was welcome and made to feel like family.

Known for her unyielding love and commitment to helping those in need, Elsa became a local legend in her community. She was especially known for her annual attempts to sneak fully cooked turkeys through the Miami airport to deliver to the less fortunate in the Dominican Republic. A symbol of her tenacious desire to feed the hungry and spread love, her actions touched countless lives and brought warmth to many – regardless of their cultures and religious beliefs.

For three years, she fought a courageous battle with end stage kidney disease. No matter how difficult life became, she faced every challenge with grace and determination. She was a woman of strength, resilience, and endless love. Her family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all those who helped take care of her during her final days. They are forever indebted to you for your kindness and support.

She is predeceased by her daughter, Dayanara Perez, her mother, Josepha Michel, and her father, Aubrey Peets. She is survived by her son, Alex Perez, and his wife, Evelyn Perez, along with her granddaughter, Bella, of Waterbury, CT. She also leaves behind her beloved grandson, Reini Perez, and his partner, Kaitlin Gilpatrick, of Beverly, MA. She is survived by many brothers and sisters, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A celebration of Elsa's life will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Salem Free Methodist Church, 8 North Street in Salem, MA – where friends and family will come together to honor her remarkable legacy. Visiting hours will begin at 10:00 AM. The funeral service will begin at 12:00 PM with a burial to follow. To contribute to Elsa's celebration of life, please visit the GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/2b59f9c9 .