Michael David "Mike" Carter

Michael David “Mike” Carter, 51, passed away on March 6, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and the smell of really good brisket.

Mike was born January 24, 1975, in Champaign, Illinois, the son of Jerry Carter and Doris Cler. On August 1, 2015, he married the love of his life, Alice Russell, beginning a partnership filled with adventure, family gatherings, and plenty of time around the grill.

Mike lived life the way he liked it—often outdoors. He loved riding his motorcycle, casting a fishing line, hitting the golf course, and spending time with the people who mattered most to him. If there was a grill nearby, Mike was probably standing behind it. His brisket was legendary among friends and family, and many good memories were made around a plate of Mike’s barbecue.

A hardworking and determined man, Mike began his electrical apprenticeship with the IBEW in 2000. Through dedication and skill, he later established his own business, Carter Electric, on June 11, 2014. He took great pride in his work and the relationships he built along the way.

Mike is survived by his wife, Alice Carter; his stepdaughter, Jessica (Jasper) Pettit; his mother, Doris Cler-Johnson and husband Greg Johnson; his sister, Jennifer (Tim) Kilman; his beloved dogs Ivy and Willow; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and special friends, Jeff and Donna Bocook, along with many other friends who were fortunate enough to know him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Carter; his mother- and father-in-law; his friend Jason “Taco” Bruce; and his beloved “3G girls,” Gracie, Georgie, and Gretta.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley Ross. A time of visitation will be held at Blue Funeral Home, located at 1704 North Court Street in Marion, on Sunday, March 15, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., with a memorial service beginning at 6:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Kevin Cox