Michael A. Carpenter

Michael A. Carpenter (Mike), 75, of Independence, Kansas, passed away October 3, 2024, at Advena Living of Cherryvale, Kansas. At the family’s request cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held November 16, 2024, from 2pm-4pm at Independence Country Club.

Mike was born the son of James K. and Juanita (Marler) Carpenter on July 21, 1949, in Independence, KS. He attended Independence schools graduating in 1967. While at IHS, Mike was a standout athlete excelling in football and basketball for the Bulldogs. Mike then played football for two years for the Independence Community College Pirates before receiving a scholarship offer to continue his football career playing tight end for the Lobos at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, NM.

After college, Mike moved back to Independence where he served as both City Recreation director along with Memorial Hall director. After several years of serving the City of Independence in those capacities he then moved to Grove, Oklahoma where he co-owned and ran a night club on Grand Lake. Later, Mike moved to Las Vegas, NV where he worked in casinos for several years before returning to work in a Quapaw, OK casino. Mike moved back to Independence at the time he became ill.

Mike was united in marriage to Debbie Diskin, and they were later divorced. The marriage produced one son, Matthew of Topeka, KS. Mike also had a daughter, Kathy Nicolson of Tempe, AZ whom Mike always referred to as “my favorite blonde”.

Mike is survived by his children and four grandchildren and his three brothers Steven (Becki) of Shawnee, KS, Jeff of Independence, KS, and Josh of Leawood, KS. He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents Orville and Bessie (Webber) Carpenter and Robert and Nellie Marler.

Through life, Mike experienced many difficulties and struggles but family and friends will choose to remember the Mike that we all loved. RIP Mike.