John M. Carter's Obituary
John Merriken Carter was born in Baltimore, Maryland. He earned the Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from the University of Maryland and the Master of Science degree from Johns Hopkins University.John joined the U.S. Navy and served in the Aircraft Radar Design Group, which became part of a secret project charged with developing a guided missile with television, which was unknown at that time.John worked for Westinghouse and California Technical Industries. Then in 1961 John formed Carco Electronics in Menlo Park, California. The new company would design and build three- and five-axis flight motion simulators for the development of guidance and control of weapons. Under John’s leadership Carco flourished as customers from all over the free world purchased John’s products.The U.S. military purchased Carco’s products. Aerospace companies were extensive and repeat customers. John served as the President of Carco almost into his 80s. At the time of his death, he was employed by the Menlo Park, California, division of Ideal Aerosmith.John flew a Cessna 180 as late as April, 2013, after which he gave up his pilot’s license at age 94. He was honored with the prestigious Wright Brothers “Master Pilot” award by the FAA in recognition of his 65 years as a pilot and in appreciation for his service, technical expertise, professionalism, and outstanding contributions that have furthered the cause of aviation safety. John took great pride in his four children. He coached them in Little League. He was almost a daily visitor at their high school team practices and never missed their games, concerts, plays, and other events. For many years he took countless photos of his children as they competed, performed, and were honored. He traveled hundreds of miles, sometimes out of state, to attend all their college and graduate school commencement ceremonies. And he took a very personal interest in their careers.For many years John has been an active member of the Menlo Park Presbyterian Church. John is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 72 years, Helen; their four children, John, Jr.; Tee; Hugh; and Tom; ten grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.The public is invited to a Memorial Service at the Menlo Park Presbyterian Church, 850 Santa Cruz Avenue, in Menlo Park, on Tuesday, December 16, at 3 p.m.In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Vitas Innovative Hospice Care: www.vitascommunityconnection.org, or contact them at 408-964-6800.Skylawn Funeral Home (650) 349-4411
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