Allan Russell Porter was born November 2nd, 1934 to the late Harold and Emma Porter of Detroit, and was called home to his Heavenly Father, on January 25th, 2015. Allan is survived by his brother Bruce Porter, and his children, Grant and Missy, along with loving cousins Mary Ann and Mel (Elaine) Porter, and a nephew, Drew Porter.
Allan married and cared for Inga (deceased) early in life, and also grieved the loss of their daughter, Renee Johnson in 2011. Blessings came to Allan in the form of a 2nd marriage to MaryAnn Bobier (Perczak) in 1998. He became a new parent to MaryAnn's grown children, Keith (deceased), Charles (Chip) and Cyndie. His family grew to include a daughter-in-law Lisa Reynolds and her husband Mark, and his beautiful granddaughters Bethany, Sarah and Courtney.
Due to his large increase in family upon his second marriage to Mary Ann, he loved to tell people he was "absorbed" by the Perczak family which includes brothers-in-law Tom, Clare, George and Edward and their families. He enjoyed visits from many Perczak nieces and nephews, especially as they began raising their families too. Parties and gatherings with family made him very proud, realizing not only did he love his time with family, but also they loved him right back.
Allan's passions in life were mainly centered on serving others. He was a 6 year member of Marine Corps Reserves, and a veteran of the U.S. Army. He retired from Michigan Bell in May, 1989 after 37 year dedicated career. He was proud to earn the 3rd degree from Knights of Columbus later in life, and kept active with the International Telephone Pioneer Camping Club and Cherryland Camping Club, traveling to almost every state in the nation after retirement.
His whole life he loved sports. Camping in deep woods to hunt was a favorite in his youth. He was an award winning dog trainer, and his Dobermans, Franz, Erik and Dana were loyal companions. Later in life he was comforted by two small lapdogs, Tess and Eliza, who remained at his side through his passing.
Allan wanted to be remembered as, "fair, honest and loving to my family and friends." He was grateful to the many doctors and staff who cared for him. As he spent time in and out of hospital care, the kindness and love of everyone was appreciated, especially in the last years of his 80 year life.
Please join us in a celebration of Allan Porter's life. Friends are welcome to visit with Allan's family on Friday, January 30, 2015 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St., Traverse City, MI 49684, with a prayer service at 6:00 p.m.
A funeral mass honoring Allan will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2015 at St. Francis Catholic Church, 1025 S. Union St., Traverse City, MI 49684, with visiting one hour prior. Rev. Fr. Polycarp Mblarawa will officiate.
Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to Father Fred Foundation or St. Francis Catholic Church.
Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Allan's family at
www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com
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The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.