Michael James Carter

As a child, Michael had an inquisitive mind often reading the encyclopedia for entertainment.

In high school Mike and several friends created a social club called The Knights Club which ran from 1957 through the 1970’s. The Knights were well known and went on to host parties throughout the years at several clubs in Kansas City, including OG’s night club and progressed into a political organization helping to get 39 African Americans elected to public office in Kansas City.

After graduation in 1959, Mike enlisted in the US Marine Corps. He served 4 years, stationed in Japan, Olathe, KS, and Cherry Point, NC. After an Honorable Discharge he worked in Kansas City at Western Electric, Richards-Gebaur AFB, and the Municipal Airport. In 1968. Mike re-enlisted in the Marine Corps to serve two more years. This time in Vietnam as a Ground Approach Controller, where he also received an Honorable Discharge.

He met Tina (Bhavani) Oakley in 1964 and married her two years later. They went on to have two sons, Chaka and Adisa. In 1975, the family moved to California where Mike worked as an Air Traffic Controller at the Oakland Airport.

Mike thrived in the social and cultural scene of the Bay Area, going to music events whenever he could. He was a lover of all different types of music but Jazz was always his favorite, and John Coltrane aka “Trane” was his favorite artist. Over the years he amassed an impressive collection of jazz albums. Many conversations covered all aspects of music: from the timing of songs, individual solos, live vs recorded, to how well a trio or quartet worked together. Throughout his life he’d been fortunate to see most of the artists he loved perform live.

Mike also loved zipping around the Oakland hills in various sports cars. He owned a couple of classic MGs but his favorite was a 1975 BMW Coupe. Up until his final days he could be seen driving through the San Diego streets in his new “The Blue Coupe” Mini- Cooper.

After leaving Oakland, Mike would switch careers and move to San Diego by way of Las Vegas for work before eventually retiring. He made a home in the Mission Beach community where he enjoyed every aspect of beach life culture. He was a favorite uncle and grand uncle to much of his extended family. He also was a great source of laughter to everyone around him.

Mike was known for telling stories of his exploits throughout the years and also for his many catch-phrases. Terms like “Truly”, “No Question”, and “I’m tryna tell ya” were always in the conversation. He had several monikers: Nasty Mike (from his dance moves), Remius Martinius (from a favored drink) and of course Uncle Mike.

He is survived by his sister Rosemary, his ex-wife Bhavani, his two sons, Chaka and Adisa , and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

“Sorry I can’t take your call right now. I’m off tripping through the Universe”

-Mike Carter -