Karl was a bright light in the lives of so many. He was lovable, charming, funny, silly, and sweet-a true goofball who could make anyone laugh.

He loved hard, holding tightly to the family he was born into, even after the heartbreaking loss of his dad at a young age. Though he struggled with this loss throughout his life, he never let go of the love and connection he felt. He also poured his heart into the family who raised him and the one he built as an adult. Just like the family who raised him-who were lucky to gain him as a bonus son and brother-he was able to offer that same kind of love to the family he created. He naturally and happily took on the role of a loving partner to Melissa and a devoted father to her children. Instead of being a stepdad, he was their dad. He raised them, filled that void, and gave them the love and support they deserved. Not everyone would do that, but that's the kind of person Karl was.

His life was not without struggle. He faced many difficulties as a result of addiction, but it never defined him or took away the essence of who he truly was. He was still the same loving, silly, and caring soul who wanted to do right, who tried, and who showed up in the ways he could. He carried pain, but he also carried love, and the people in his life never stopped loving him in return.

Karl is survived by the family who raised him and loved him beyond measure: Mark and Karen Spillson; his siblings, Marcus (Christine), Amanda (Andrew), Michael (Lizzy), and Kevin; and his grandmother, Glenna Robinson. He is also survived by his nieces, Giada, Penelope, and Sloane. He leaves behind his devoted life partner, Melissa, and their children, Tradence, Kanosha, and Kiaira, as well as his mother, Angel; his sister, Chelsea, and her children; and his brother, Taylor. Karl will also be deeply missed by his aunts and uncles, Keith, Kimberly (Jose), Kent, and Mary, along with his many cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his loving father, Karl Carpenter; his cousin, Jasmine; and his Uncle Kevin.

Karl's family feels the weight of his loss but finds solace in knowing that his pain is over and he is finally at peace. Though his time with us was too short, the joy he brought to his family and friends will live on in their hearts forever. He was deeply loved, and he will be deeply missed.