WICHITA - Michael James Carithers, 56, died Nov. 15, 2013, at his home. He was born June 19, 1957, in Hutchinson, to Calvin and Anne (Cowell) Carithers. He graduated from Corpus Christi State University with a Bachelor's Degree in political science. Mike owned Prairie Blinds in Wichita.

Survivors include: daughter, Kendall Carithers, Houston; two sons, Cole Carithers, Tulsa, Okla., and Payne Carithers, Wichita; father, Calvin Carithers, Hutchinson; sister, Pamela Casanova, Hutchinson; half brother, Gary Lester, Brighton, England; three nieces, Rachel Gorges and husband Dennis, Andale, Alyssa Casanova, Manhattan, and Calla Casanova, Topeka; five great nieces and nephews, Aaron, Madalyn and Samual Gorges, Braelyn and Nikko Casanova; best friend, Greg Piche, Wichita; and many other lifelong friends.

Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Anne Carithers and his high school best friend, Tommy Weems.

Cremation has taken place. Memorial service will be 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23, 2013, at Elliott Chapel with Pastor Matt Stafford officiating. Friends are invited to join the family at Pam's house, 221 W. 19th Ave, following the service. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Friday at Elliott Mortuary. Memorials may be made to Rainbows United in Wichita, where Mike enjoyed volunteering his time and sharing his resources, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.