RONALD PAUL PORTERFIELD
October 21, 1949 ˜ March 3, 2023

Ronald Paul Porterfield, passed away at the age of 73 on March 3, 2023, after complications from a brain bleed. Ron was born Oct. 21, 1949, to Gene and Joyce Porterfield of Vancouver, WA. He graduated from Fort Vancouver High School and Western Washington State College, was a left-handed first baseman, and married his high school sweetheart, Kristine, in 1972. Ron was a dedicated family man with an incredibly generous spirit towards everyone he encountered.
A lifelong educator, Ron began his teaching career in Tigard and shortly after joined Vancouver Public Schools (VPS). He had a long career as a teacher, principal, and district administrator. With over thirty years in VPS, Ron taught at Felida Elementary School, was a principal at both Harney Elementary and Sarah J. Anderson Elementary, and was a district-level administrator. Upon his retirement from VPS, he then joined Beaverton School District as a building principal at Nancy Ryles Elementary and then as a district Associate Superintendent. Ron impacted the lives of countless students, families, teachers, and educators through his constant smile, humor, unwavering support, and dedication of service.
Ron leaves behind his loving wife of 50 years, Kristine Porterfield. He is also survived by his children, Andrew Porterfield, Sally and Kurt Kroon; two grandchildren, Porter (12) and Palmer (9) Kroon, and his sister, Sherri MacLardy and her husband Doug MacLardy, all of Vancouver; and brother-in-law, Roger Henderson of Missoula, MT. He is preceded in death by his parents and an infant son, Joshua. Being a Papa to his grandboys was the highlight of Ron’s later stage of life and he and Kris were dedicated attendees at all of their sporting events and school activities. Ron loved beach trips with his RV, driving his Mini-Cooper convertible, puttering around his backyard pool, and walks with Kris and his goldendoodle dogs.
A celebration of life will take place at Columbia Presbyterian Church on Saturday, March 25th at 2:00 p.m. All are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Spina Bifida Association at www.spinabifidaassociation.org.
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Published by The Columbian on Mar. 7, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Porterfield

15 Entries

Steve Carter

April 30, 2023

Ron and I first met in little league, we were on the same team. I was one year older than Ron. It was evident that he was going to be a good player. We played against each other in high school and college Ron at Western myself at Eastern Oregon. Ron beat us with a base hit in the last inning. That was 1972. I had not seen Ron since then. What I remember was the easygoing, friendly guy he wa

Darla Warner

March 26, 2023

Our boys attended Felida Elementary School where they had Ron as a teacher and what a teacher he was, so dedicated to his students. Our 3 boys said Mr. Porterfield made school fun and they bloomed under his guidance. I was involved in PTA when he did his principal mentorship under Gary Adams, what a great team they were...both were perfect councilors and loved the treats we had with our meetings. His students felt so lucky to have had him as a teacher before they left for middle school.
The Warner family shares many fond memories and sends all our deepest sympathy to family and friends.

Arlene Wood

March 26, 2023

To Kris and Family, my deepest sympathies and condolences. I will always remember Ron as a kind warm person. My family and his grew up together as our parents were very good friends. I always had and will continue to have a soft spot in my heart for him. RIP dear Ron. My thoughts are with Kris and his family. Arlene Wood

Laura Truitt

March 25, 2023

I served as a student teacher at Sarah J. Anderson under Ron. He was warm, kind, professional and modeled shared leadership in a way I haven't seen in my career since. When I moved back to the Pacific NW after a decade of teaching on the East Coast, Ron helped me obtain an interview with VSD. He was a class act all the way, and I will remember him fondly.

Gary and Janet Van Allen

March 25, 2023

We met Ron and Kris while we were all in high school. We have fond memories of those days. I was in Ron's graduation class and enjoyed my time interacting with him. I especially have good personal memories as a teammate with him on the school baseball team. Ron was a star first baseman and district all-star player. Years later Janet was hired by Ron, an Elementary School Principle, as a paraeducator at his school. She enjoyed his leadership style and respect he gave to his staff. Ron gave us all an example of a life well lived. Our memory of him is filled with smiles.

ERIC MCBRIDE

March 24, 2023

I first met Ron in Missoula, MT at a career fair for educators. I connected with and trusted him almost immediately...to the extent that I accepted my first teaching position in Vancouver a very long way from my home state of Indiana. I have only the fondest memories of my time with Ron and his family. They invited me on many ski adventures and when my Grandmother visited me I wanted them to meet the Porterfield's. I am so sorry for your loss. Sending lots of love to you and yours. May Ron get the eternal 'blue bird days' he spoke of when he was describing the beautiful state of WA in his effort to recruit me.

bob staples

March 22, 2023

Kris and family
My deepest sympathy for your loss. Ron was one of the truly nice guys. Many fond memories back to high school and youth group. May God give you peace.

Steve/Wendy Silcox

March 21, 2023

Kris, Andy, Sally and family - We were so sorry to hear of Ron´s recent untimely passing. Even though we have lost touch over the years, we have very fond memories from when Ron taught at CFT Elementary in Tigard with Steve. He was a wonderful role model to teachers and students alike, and we are lucky to have called him our friend. Please know you are in our hearts and prayers.
Steve and Wendy Silcox

Wayne and Sandy Bartnik

March 20, 2023

We taught with Ron back in the mid 70s when he was in Tigard. We knew he was an amazing PE teacher at the time, but now, all these years later, we can say he was the best we ever saw. Just think of all the kids he positively impacted over his career as a teacher, principal and administrator. Sending condolences to the Porterfield family. Ron was one of a kind!
Wayne and Sandy Bartnik

Nola Koch

March 10, 2023

I have been blessed to know the Porterfield family for years. Ron was a wonderful man, and left a loving legacy. Prayers for the family, Kris, Andy, Sally, grandchildren and all

George Vaughan

March 10, 2023

I'm so sorry to hear of Ron's untimely passing and my condolences to Kris and family. Such a fine man!

Kris, Kyle, and Lisan Mangino

March 8, 2023

We met Ron and Kris and the family at church many years ago. Ron always had a big smile for us, such a wonderful person, kind and caring. Gone too soon to heaven, we are praying for you all.

Brett M. Fisher

March 7, 2023

Kris and family (Andrew and Sally) my heart and prayers goes to you....I first meet Ron at the old Harney Elementary and the he got me to come to Sarah J. Anderson Elementary....He had to have pulled some strings to get me there...If one is lucky enough to meet someone like RON in ones life time, then consider your self LUCKY....HE WOULD ALWAYS TALK ABOUT TAKING THE KIDS SKIING AND THAT SPECIAL BOARD OF ANDREWS...He was one of the few, really nicest people one could ever meet in LIFE.... Brett (V.S.D retired)

Adrian Gomez

March 7, 2023

I never really got to know Mr. Porterfield, but I went to Felida and remember both him and his son Andy. They were always very kind, and seemed like good folks. I'm sorry for your loss.

Jeannie Brust

March 7, 2023

Ron was a fine human being and a caring educator. His gifts of kindness to students and staff will always be remembered! RIP Ron... definitely one of the good guys!

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