Jack Brian Carter

Jack Brian Carter passed away on October 13, 2020 at the age of 85. Born in Cleveland, TN to Ervin & Beatrice Carter, his parents soon moved to Athens, TN. It was here, where he met Carol Lee in high school. After graduation, while studying accounting at a local college, he decided to transfer to the University of Tennessee. While at UT, he worked at Baptist Hospital in the accounting department. It was here where he found his calling of hospital administration. After graduation, he and Carol moved to Chicago where Jack would complete his masters at Northwestern University. Jack wound up working at Ravenswood Hospital as an assistant administrator while in school. In 1962, he received a call from Ferguson-Droste-Ferguson Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI. They were looking for a new administrator. That spring, he, Carol and their two boys moved and would from then on be Michiganders. Jack worked there for 34 years, having his title changed to president, the hospital changing to Ferguson Hospital and help overseeing the merger into Spectrum. He served on many boards, The Michigan Hospital Association, Blue Cross-Blue Shield, The Spectrum Health Foundation to name a few. He was recognized by Spectrum for his service to the community. Jack loved his job and was well liked by all his employees. Upon retirement, he and Carol would winter in Marco Island, FL. They enjoyed golf there with many friends. Jack and Carol were able to play golf at many storied courses. They traveled to Scotland, Pebble Beach, and courses in Arizona. When back in Michigan, Jack would enjoy fishing at their cottage on Pere Marquette River, and hunting at his club at Grass Lake. He was preceded in death by his parents. Jack is survived by his wife of 64 years, Carol; sons, Jeff (Jo Ann), Brian (Maria); grandchildren, Mitchell, Kayleigh, Kyle, Jason (Joanna), Jessica (Chad); great-grandchildren, Karen, Katelyn, Marian, Pressley, Braxton; and brother, Sam. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Spectrum Health Foundation, 100 Michigan St. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503, Alzheimer’s Association, West Michigan Region 2944 Fuller Ave., NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505, or Emmanuel Hospice, 401 Hall Street, Ste 263, Grand Rapids, MI  49503. Visitation at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel will be held Sunday, October 25, 2020 from 1-3 PM & 6-8 PM.