David James Carr class of 2010 was born in Lansing, Michigan on December 19, 1991 and raised in Okemos, Michigan.
He obtained his secondary education at Okemos High School and the Leelanau School in Glen Arbor, Michigan and he earned an associate degree in political science from Orange Coast College, Costa Mesa, California. He then moved to Chicago, Illinois to attend DePaul University where he was pursuing his undergraduate degree in political science.
David touched many people’s lives with his quick wit, love of cooking and entertaining banter about politics and a passion for graphic novels. He was looking forward to vote in the upcoming election. He loved time with friends and family and he especially loved being an uncle to his 5-year old nephew, Luca.
David died of natural causes in his Chicago apartment on September 21st, 2020.
He was preceded in death by all his grandparents and three uncles.
David is survived by his parents, Diane Sentkeresty Carr and James F. Carr, Jr, his brother Colin Joseph Carr, nephew Luca Donald Carr, and his aunts, Nancy Sentkeresty Cooper (James) and Sandy Sentkeresty Siedleski (Stephen) and cousins.
David’s earthly remains will be interred at Harbor Springs Lakeview Cemetery on a hill overlooking Lake Michigan. A Celebration of Life will be held in 2021.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the David James Carr Memorial Fund for Mental Health at The Children’s Foundation. www.justgiving.com/campaign/DJC-MemorialFund
Thank you to Morgan Chavez-VanBemden class of 2010 for notification:
"David, a vibrant and charismatic 28-year-old, left an indelible mark on the lives of those who knew him before his passing in 2020. To know David was to love him - his infectious enthusiasm, sharp wit, and generous heart captivated all who crossed his path. David was attending DePaul University in Chicago, IL, a proud accomplishment of his. A connoisseur of fine dining and cooking, David delighted in exploring new culinary experiences and experimenting with innovative recipes. His quick wit and clever one-liners often left me in tears, while his unwavering loyalty as a friend provided a foundation of trust and support. David's passion for domestic and international politics was evident in his lively discussions and debates, often peppered with humorously inappropriate comments that showcased his playful irreverence. His ability to find humor in even the most mundane situations was a gift, and his presence in the lives of those who loved him was a constant source of joy and laughter. Though his time with us was far too brief, David's impact on those who knew him will be felt for years to come. His memory serves as a reminder to cherish the time we have with loved ones and to live life to the fullest, just as David did."
From the David James Carr Memorial Fund for Mental Health, Fundraising for the Children's Foundation
"On the afternoon of Thursday, September 24th we learned that our beloved son, David James Carr had passed away of natural causes in his Chicago Apartment. He was only 28-years old.
"David struggled with mental illness including schizoaffective disorder, depression and anxiety since he was a teenager. He would refer to the delusions and paranoia associated with his mild psychoses as his Magical Thinking. It was in those early years that Diane and I realized the urgent need for increased awareness and attention on psychological wellness and services for young people. Unfortunately, not much has improved since then for parents and their children who are afflicted with these debilitating diseases.
Mental health disorders are the most common diseases of childhood - more than cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. One in five children suffers from a diagnosable mental, behavioral or developmental health disorder and only 20 percent of affected children receive the specialized treatment they need.
"We are sharing this very personal story to provide comfort in our grief and to invite you to help us take action in David's name to provide the needed funding for other children and adolescents suffering with mental health issues. Diane and I are establishing the David James Carr Memorial Fund for Mental Health at the Children's Foundation, where I am a trustee, and respectfully ask for your support to improve the health and wellness of young folks in Michigan."
"To learn more about The Children's Foundation, please visit yourchildrensfoundation.org"
https://www.petoskeynews.com/obituaries/story-obituaries-2020-10-09-david-james-carr-28-43658659