Michael Jeffrey Carter was born on October 31, 1955, in Madera, California, and died on October 29, 2024, in Fresno, California, two days short of his 69th birthday. He will be remembered for his integrity, intelligence, ingenuity, and devotion to his family and faith.

Michael was the youngest of three sons born to Allen and Betty Zoe Carter. He grew up in Madera and graduated from Madera High School. He attended UC Davis for one year, completing his bachelor's degree at California State University, Fresno.

He initially planned to be a dentist but one day of shadowing a practicing dentist cured him of that idea. Instead he became a realtor, earning both his broker's and appraiser's licenses. He was a much-respected independent appraiser for residential properties for about 30 years, known for his integrity and his gentle smile. While working as a self-employed realtor and appraiser, Michael used his shrewd financial planning ability to set up his own retirement plan by purchasing rental properties which he managed himself (with Julie's help).

He met the love of his life, Julie Lane, on a blind date set up by his former pastor, Rev. Paul Armstrong, on December 10, 1983. Not surprisingly, this first date was at a local concert. They were married on June 21, 1986, at Julie's parents' church in Arnold, California. Michael and Julie have two much-loved sons, Sean, age 30, and Joshua, age 27.

Michael was a devoted husband and father. He made sure that he and Julie attended all of the boys' events, always supporting of their endeavors. He was instrumental in supporting Julie's career, including her living in Tempe, Arizona while attending Arizona State for an entire school year while she studied for her doctorate degree. Although he was not a singer, Michael joined her church choir to support her and was essential in making her dream of an advanced choir come true in Soli Deo Gloria, serving on the board until his death. Always willing to put Julie's interest first, Michael happily traveled with her around Europe, but he was happiest at home, at the coast or mountains, and visiting National Parks. Michael's final thoughts were caring for his family, making sure Julie had friends to accompany her in her favorite pursuits and ensuring the financial future of his family.

Michael was a skilled athlete, enjoying golf, tennis, and especially sailing on Huntington Lake. He earned a place finish one year in the Huntington Regatta in his 17-foot daysailer. As an expert windsurfer and snow skier, he served in the windsurfer patrol for San Luis

Reservoir Forebay and ski patrol at China Peak. He enjoyed teaching Julie and the boys to join in his favorite sports, leading the family in many active ventures together.

Michael would have happily spent an entire day asking other people about their lives and their interests. His kind heart led him to help others as often as he could, especially if it involved his analytical skills. Even as his health deteriorated, he would turn the conversation to others, concerned for their wellbeing more than himself. His natural perseverance was evident in the way he handled the rental properties himself, teaching himself to do all sorts of repairs. On any project he undertook, he worked until he figured out the solution.

Michael became a Christian in college and continued as a Jesus follower the rest of his life. In everything he did, he made a full commitment. His walk with the Lord deepened greatly as he dealt with ALS. He fought the disease bravely, relying on his faith for strength, never giving in to self-pity.

Michael died peacefully at home, five years after his first symptoms surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife Julie, his sons Sean of Denver, Colorado and Joshua of Fresno, California, his brother Brian of Madera, California, nephew Rob Carter and wife Nicole of Santa Cruz, California, and niece Emily Carter-Hansen and husband Justin and daughter Evie also of Santa Cruz. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Steve Carter. Michael will be deeply missed.

Gifts of remembrance may be made to:

First Presbyterian Church, Music Department

1540 M Street, Fresno 93721

Soli Deo Gloria Women's Chorale

P.O. Box 7633, Fresno, CA 93747