Mike was born on January 31, 1954, in Nevada, MO to Robert A. and Marlene Lou (Palmer) McCarter. He grew up in Nevada, graduating from Nevada High School in 1972. Shortly after graduation, Mike met the love of his life, Vickie Diane (Wolf), and they were united in marriage on November 23, 1974, at First Christian Church in Nevada, MO. After marriage, they moved to Galveston, TX, where Mike worked construction.
Mike and Vickie moved back to Nevada in 1976, where he worked with his dad at Star Cleaners. Their daughter, Melody Diane McCarter, was born on November 23, 1978. Mike would later take ownership of Star Cleaners, following his dad’s retirement, where he worked until he retired. Following his retirement, he worked on Frank E. Peters golf course in Nevada for several years.
Mike loved to play golf and cards with his buddies. He also loved his family very much, especially his two grandsons, Trenton Sanderson and Logan Smith. He also loved Jesus and was so very generous with his time and money. He was also a member of the First Christian Church. He loved to serve as a 49-year member of the Elks, and particularly loved helping local children at Christmas through the Elks.
Mike was preceded in death by a younger brother, Mark Douglas McCarter, his father Robert A. McCarter and recently, his mother, Marlene McCarter.
In addition to his loving wife, Vickie, he is survived by his daughter, Melody Smith and husband Josh, of Nevada, MO; two grandsons, Trenton Sanderson, Pittsburg, KS and Logan Smith and his wife Claire, of Nevada; three nieces, Arian Riordan, Elizabeth Hoffman, and Gail Fleener.
Services for Mike will be 11:00 am, Friday January 23, 2026, at Ferry Funeral Home.
Memorials are suggested to the Nevada Elks Christmas Baskets, with the funeral home serving as custodian.