Friday, December 30, 2011

My Beloved Brother, Carter

My brother, Carter Kane Mullen, took his final rest this morning at the age of 61.  He battled inoperable brain cancer for almost a year and a half and was a true champion to the end.
Carter was a fierce competitor in everything he did! He taught me many things in life.  I excelled at sports because of him.   He loved to dove and duck hunt.  He was an exceptional basketball and baseball player.  He loved to spend time up at Lake Powell on his boat.  He had a successful advertising and public relations business.  He was creative and hard working.  Carter loved life!  And it rubbed off on those around him.
Carter had a quick wit and a phenomenal sense of humor.  About a month ago, someone said to Carter, "Is your sister always this funny?"  He replied, "Well, she is a Mullen!"  This photo is a joke between Carter and me.  Taken in the market in our treasured town of San Miguel de Allende where our family has had a home for over 37 years.  Neither one of us are fond of clowns and I just had to have him pose with this parachuting paper mache  clown.
 (1963)
He was always protective of me, his little sister.  And of course I idealized him! And so did all my girlfriends.  I even had one friend name her son after Carter.  Such a handsome guy.
This was taken 7 years ago at my 50th birthday.  Nothing can take away that special bond that we had or the memories.  In the last year, Carter wrote in an email, "If there is anything I've learned from my sickness is that you cannot predict your life.  And you can't look over your shoulder.  Live life with happiness, gusto and positive thoughts."  I will big brother!  You will always be by my side.

Carter Kane Mullen
March 5, 1950 - Minneapolis, Minnesota
December 30, 2011 - Scottsdale, Arizona

9 comments:

  1. This post is a beautiful tribute to your dear brother. How kind of you to share him here. Warmth and good wishes to you for continued wonderful, treasured memories.
    A blog friend
    Steven

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  2. Steven, I can not tell you how much your words mean to me. Thank you! Treasured memories make the word of difference. Robin

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  3. Well said with love, appreciation and great sadness. Carter will remain in our hearts and thoughts always. Love to you and the family. Dianne

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  4. He leaves a bright light in all our lives. He will be missed. Our love -

    Karen and Dick

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  5. Thank you for sharing this beautiful post about Carter. I met both Carter and Susan during my Rotary Exchange Program from Malaysia to Arizona nearly 10 years ago. They were such kind and gracious hosts. Those memories will be with me forever. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Asha.

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  6. Carter loved you so much, Robin. I'm so sorry for your loss. He was such a huge part of my life and I will never forget him. He was a generous and funny guy and will be missed by all.

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  7. Thank you everyone! Carter touched so many people with his humor, love and a great attitude on life.

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  8. Carter was a bright light. I met him and Susan on a cruise. They were so fun and complimented each other in such a lovely way. He will be missed, but his light will always shine in Susan's smile. RIP Carter.

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  9. Carter, you were a big part of my life growing up, like an uncle to me. You will forever be in my heart! I will miss you Carter! I love you!

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