Eric F. 'Rick' Carter.

WORCESTER Eric F. "Rick" Carter, 63, of Worcester, completed his life long journey when he transitioned peacefully from this world to the next on Saturday, May 14th 2011.

Eric is survived by his best friend and long time companion, Julia Tufano and their cat "Princess". He also leaves behind his Aunt Frances "Fran" Sawers; a dear boyhood friend, Brother Benedict "Ben" Gargolinski at St. Joseph Abbey in Spencer; several other aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. Eric was born in Clinton on June 8th 1947, a son of the late Glen and Winsome (Burton) Carter. He grew up in Sterling, and lived in Worcester for the past 30 plus years. He was a graduate of Wachusett Regional High School, Worcester Junior College, and earned his bachelor's degree from Fitchburg State College. Eric also attended MIU in Iowa, where meditation became a major part of his life.

Eric worked as a printer at the former Sweet Life Foods and then in many positions such as school bus driver for Weagle Bus Co. and route driver for Morgan Lines, Cherokee and most recently Ryder Logistics. He was an outdoor guy who enjoyed being on the road.

A lover of animals, Eric and Julia had many cherished pets over the years including their cats, Jewels and Rosie, and a dog he found, befriended and named "Puppy".

Eric loved nature...