Carl David Reiter

Carl David Reiter, known affectionately as “Mook” to his devoted circle of golfing friends, played his last round at Ridgeway Country Club on March 12, 2026. Born in Memphis on February 4, 1944, he was the only son of Edye and Murray Reiter and grew up sharing an idyllic childhood with his older sister Marilyn Blumbeks (John) and younger sister Ronnye Kendrick (Dale). A man of uncommon sweetness and kindness, Carl forged an unbreakable bond with his friends that spanned decades of life’s triumphs and trials.

He shared a deep and abiding love with his wife Belinda. Though their time together was far too brief, the memories they created remain forever cherished. Carl’s life was fueled by music; his eclectic playlist mirrored his authentic spirit, embracing Dylan, Sinatra, and Big Band sounds with equal passion. He knew every lyric and sang along joyfully through what he liked to call his nine lives, including four memorable holes-in-one.

Carl possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of golf, astonishing friends with his ability to name every Masters champion since 1934. He also had a rare gift for composing heartfelt poetic tributes that honored loved ones and commemorated special occasions, leaving behind treasured keepsakes of his words. In the late 1970s he opened the iconic US MALE clothing store on the Highland Strip, which became the city’s hippest destination for jeans. Over the following three decades, nine additional stores opened across Memphis and surrounding areas. His final business venture, Carl’s Wines and Liquor, was enriched by two young managers, Ethan and Ty, whom he regarded as sons.

To all who knew him, Carl was a tonic for the soul. He leaves behind a legacy of love that his wife, sisters, extended family, and wide circle of friends will deeply miss. As Irving Berlin wrote, “The song has ended but the melody lingers on.”