Kevin D. Carter

1961 - 2026

Kevin D. Carter
Born: September 9, 1961 in Rockford, IL
Died: January 4, 2026 in Stillman Valley, IL
Kevin Carter, born in 1962 in Rockford, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 4th, surrounded by the love of his family. Kevin approached life head-on and was known for his strong will, steady determination, and generosity. He was a kind man, a loyal friend, and a strong defender of family.
Kevin was a lifelong lover of old cars, with a special place in his heart for the Ford Model T's and Mustangs. He marked his life not by dates, but by the car he had in the moment of time. He admired the ingenuity, craftsmanship, history, and character behind each vehicle, and always had a project car or three in the garage.
Kevin had a long career as a woodsman and horticulturalist. As a young man, he learned logging and tree trimming, defying gravity with little more than rope, shoe spikes, and pure grit. After completing college later in life, he had a long career as a golf course superintendent, enjoying the challenge such specialized grounds required.
Kevin was a steadfast husband, father, and grandfather. Whether lending a hand or tool, sharing a story, or offering quiet support, Kevin showed up for others in meaningful ways and touched many lives. Being "Grandpa" was one of his greatest joys, and he cherished every moment spent with them. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the cars he built, and the many lives he touched.
We know you will always be with us.
Kevin is survived by his wife of 45 years - Christine Carter; his four children – Marie Carter-Quartullo, Anthony Carter, Jennifer Cowen, and Sarah Berkowski; his five grandchildren – Naithan Carter, Izabella Cowen, Ophelia Quartullo, Gracelynn Berkowski, and Gabriel Quartullo; and his siblings – three sisters and four brothers.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 - 4:00 PM on Friday, January, 9, 2026 at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home in Stillman Valley concluding with a funeral service celebrating his well lived life beginning at 4:00 PM at the funeral home with Molly Bowen officiating.