Obituary of Carter Wil Haanstra

The Creator must have needed an angel as on Friday May 8^th. Carter Wil Haanstra, age 21, died suddenly in a car accident. He was the nicest person you could ever meet.

Born on June 7^th, 2004, in Fredericton, Carter was a twin to his sister Rachel, two minutes older than her (he would tease). He was a little brother to Alex John (AJ) who was so excited and proud to welcome his little brother and sister.

Carter was a gentle soul with the biggest heart. He was known for his kindness, intelligence, and dry sense of humour that could make people laugh when they least expected it. He had a fun-loving nature and carried himself with humility and genuine compassion, he treated everyone with respect and understanding. That was Carter’s way. Wisdom beyond his years and a heart of gold.

Carter’s priority was his love for his family who adored him, his friends, his work family at the DECRH. He was enrolled at NBCC in the LPN program and took investment courses. He was a huge fan of the Seattle Seahawks and the Toronto Raptors and the Jays, in this order. He loved sports and had a gift for statistics. As a young boy of 7, he would share the morning newspaper, memorizing sports stats and scores long before most children his age took interest. He later enjoyed learning about investments and the stock market, a hobby he pursued with remarkable skill.

What we will remember most about Carter was the way he made others feel. He had a rare ability to connect with anyone through empathy, sincerity, and quiet generosity. His dry, sly sense of humour, compassionate heart, and genuine character made a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his beautiful and caring mother, Nancy Schuttenbeld whose selflessness shined through Carter in every way; his loyal brother and best friend, Alex Haanstra; and his loving twin-sister, Rachel Haanstra who he adored. He is also survived by his Gram Rose of Minto, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family members, all with whom he loved spending time.

He was predeceased by his father, Shawn Haanstra, his Oma and Opa, Nelly and Harri Schuttenbeld, Grampy Willam Haanstra, of Minto who died before his birth but would have been so proud of him.

Thank you to everyone who has made this tragedy bearable. Carter appreciated everyone. He made the world gentler and lighter simply by being in it. He was one in a million.

To honour Carter, a visitation will be held at McAdam’s Funeral Home on Thursday, May 14^th 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. The  funeral service and reception will take place at McAdam's Funeral Home's J.A. McAdam Memorial Chapel, 160 York Street, Fredericton, on  Friday, May 15^th, 2026 at 4:00 PM with Fr, John Jennings as clergy. To honour Carter if you can, please wear a Seattle Seahawks, Toronto Raptors or a Toronto Blue Jays jersey or a team of your choice. He loved sports. 

The following day, his ashes will be spread by immediate family in Saint Martins; his favorite spot. In lieu of flowers, donations in Carter’s name made to the breakfast programs at Bliss Carman Middle School and FHS would be appreciated.  

He will be deeply missed and forever loved. Though his life was far too short, the impact he had on those around him was profound. He appreciated you all so very much. Love you forever Carter.