Carl Donald Calkins (1980–2020)

Carl Donald Calkins, born January 22, 1980, from Redondo Beach, California, passed away on September 6, 2020 after a courageous fight with cancer. A life gone far too soon, but never forgotten. Every year, his mother Cec Austin gathers family and friends at Manhattan Beach Pier to honor Carl’s memory — flowers released into the ocean around 5 PM, a tradition of love, grief, and celebration. Carl was known for his larger‑than‑life presence, his smile, his laughter, and his deep love for family, friends, and Mother Earth. Halloween was his favorite holiday — he never lost the childlike joy that made him unforgettable. He was a father with a heart of gold. His children carry the lessons he taught them, and those who loved him believe he still sends answers, guidance, and strength. Carl lived with purpose — a humanitarian, mentor, coach, volunteer, and fighter. In the words of those closest to him, he was “salt of the earth,” “a once‑in‑a‑lifetime person,” and “always on the right side of everything.” Even in his hardest moments, Carl stayed focused on his kids. He fought with everything he had. His friends visited, prayed, texted, and held space for him — because Carl always showed up for everyone else. His passing left a hole in the hearts of all who knew him. Cousins became brothers. Friends became family. And his community continues to carry forward his activism, compassion, and commitment to healing the world. Carl loved Los Angeles fiercely — the Lakers winning the Finals and the Dodgers chasing the World Series felt like moments he should have been here for. No one repped LA harder. To his mother, Cec: thank you for the gift of your son. To his children: he will always be your father, your guide, your protector. To everyone who loved him: his memory lives on in every story, every laugh, every act of kindness. Carl Calkins — a father, son, brother, friend, mentor, fighter, and champion. Forever loved. Forever missed.