Eric F Carter

Eric F. "Rick" Carter, 63, of Worcester, completed his life long journey when he transitioned peacefully from this world to the next on Saturday, May 14th 2011. Eric is survived by his best friend and long time companion, Julia Tufano and their cat "Princess": He also leaves behind his Aunt Frances "Fran" Sawers; a dear boyhood friend, Brother Benedict "Ben" Gargolinski at St Joseph Abbey in Spencer; several other aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. Eric was born in Clinton on June 8th 1947, a son of the late Glen and Winsome (Burton) Carter. He grew up in Sterling, and lived in Worcester for the past 30 plus years. He was a graduate of Wachusett Regional High School, Worcester Junior College, and earned his bachelor's degree from Fitchburg State College. Eric also attended MIU in Iowa, where meditation became a major part of his life. Eric worked as a printer at the former Sweet life Foods and then in many positions such as school bus driver for Weagle Bus Co. and route driver for Morgan Lines, Cherokee and most recently Ryder Logistics. He was an outdoor guy who enjoyed being on the road. A lover of animals, Eric and Julia had many cherished pets over the years including their cats Jewels and Rosie and a dog he found, befriended and named "Puppy". Eric loved nature and life. He enjoyed basketball both in playing as a youth and watching the Boston Celtics. He also enjoyed fishing, camping, riding motorcycles, reading and sharing knowledge with those close to him. His main goal in this life was to constantly work on his spiritual journey to the next life. He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. Julia and his family wish to thank the doctors, nurses, social workers and hospice workers for caring for Eric during his short illness. Friends and relatives, who wish to say a final goodbye, are invited to visit with the family Thursday, May 19th from 9 am to 10 am in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am in Our Lady of Loreto Church, 37 Massasoit Rd. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph's Abbey, 167 North Spencer Rd. Spencer, MA 01562 or the Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden St. Worcester, MA 01606.