Posted on 07/28/2026

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Carl Reed Kempton, 74, of Broderick, California, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, July 16, 2026 surrounded by family. He was born on April 1, 1952, in Merced, California, to Bertha (Boyer) and Arthur Kempton. Carl is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Sylvia (Aguirre) Kempton, daughter, Kate Kempton, brother from another mother, Tom Spencer, and countless extended family and friends. Carl graduated from Washington High School in 1970 and proudly served his community as a volunteer firefighter for 10 years at Broderick's Washington Fire District followed by 40 years as a devoted employee and union steward with the State of California. Carl was an adventurer at heart and a master storyteller. He had an uncanny ability to turn ordinary moments into unforgettable tales, filling rooms with laughter without ever seeking the spotlight for himself. He had a gift for making everyone around him feel seen, welcomed, and important. His magnetic personality drew people in, and his genuine interest in others made them want to stay. His family was his greatest joy, and the love he gave them was constant, steadfast, and unconditional. He showed that strength is not measured by the absence of hardship but by the compassion we choose in response to it. Carl faced adversity throughout his life and emerged not hardened by it, but softened into a man of remarkable empathy and grace. A memorial service celebrating Carl's exceptional life will be held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at 11:00am at River Cities Funeral Chapel in West Sacramento, California. We invite all who knew and loved Carl to join us in honoring his memory. He will be remembered for his humor, his heart, his adventurous spirit, and his extraordinary ability to make the world feel a little brighter. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his example leaves an enduring legacy. He will be deeply missed and forever loved. Heaven just got a little rowdier—and a lot more adventurous.