Robert Louis Carpenter

Mr. Robert Louis Carpenter (Bob), 74, died October 29, 2021 peacefully at his home in Cornelius, NC. Bob was born in Hickory, NC, the only child of Elizabeth Pope Carpenter and Elmer Louis Carpenter. Bob was a graduate of Hickory High School, Lenoir Rhyne College, and Winthrop University where he obtained a Masters in Business Administration. He was a long time employee of Duke Energy, where he was highly respected. Bob also served in the Army National Guard. In retirement, Bob was a ski instructor and a real estate broker in his beloved Beech Mountain, NC. He considered himself an expert on all things Beech Mountain and was always ready to share his love for the mountain.

Bob is survived by his loving wife Jane of 54 years. Bob and Jane have two daughters Franci B, Robinson and Kara K. Carpenter. He is also survived by his son-in-law Ken Robinson and two grandchildren, granddaughter Katherine (Kati) Saunders (husband Nate) and grandson Kasey D. Robinson.

Bob was a member of First Baptist Church in Charlotte and Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Banner Elk, NC where he served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher and set an example for many young people. He was always willing to serve on committees or to assist with opportunities at the church, sharing the love of Christ. Bob served on the board of directors for many years at Hebron Colony Ministries in Boone, NC, with a heart for those struggling with addiction. He was recently honored as Board Member Emeritus for all the time and energy he gave to this ministry over the years.

The two consistent loves of Bob’s life (other than Jane and his family) were golf and snow-skiing. He enjoyed playing golf at Beech Mountain Golf Course with all his golfing buddies. He also loved playing other courses whenever he had the chance. Bob also loved skiing both at Beech Mountain in the winter or in Colorado. He made many lasting friendships on the course and on the slopes.

Bob and Jane had many opportunities to travel. They had memorable trips out west, to the Caribbean and in the Carolinas, whether with family or friends, Bob always made the best of every opportunity and enjoyed life to the fullest. He was also humbled by several mission trips to the Philippines and Russia. Those trips led to lasting relationships with people he met here in the states and was able to relate on a much deeper level because of his travels.

Bob was a Godly leader whether at home with his family or extended family, at work or church. His glass half full perspective brought hope to everyone he met. He also had a dry sense of humor that quickly set people at ease. Bob attributed his strong faith to the impact of his grandparents who were strong in their faith and gave him a Godly heritage. There is no doubt that Bob was greeted warmly early on Friday morning by his beloved Lord and a host of witnesses.

The family wishes to thank Lake Norman Hospice for their loving care, especially nurse Ashley and CNA’s Yvette and Sam. Their visits brought laughter and joy during this difficult time. In addition, thank you to Delores Williams, Bob’s caregiver and a woman of faith. There are no words to thank Dr. Manuel Rodriguez, who was Bob’s friend, doctor and tireless cheerleader through this journey.

The service to celebrate Bob’s life and home going will be Saturday, November 6, 2021 at noon at Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home in Huntersville, NC. Visitation will precede the service from 10:30 to noon. 

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Hebron Colony, 356 Old Turnpike Rd, Boone, NC 28607.