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BORN
1930
DIED
2024
Raymond Porter Obituary
July 21 1930 - March 18 2024
Raymond Murrell Porter died at home in Rockford, IL on March 18, 2024. He was born July 21, 1930 in Waterville, Ohio, the son of Paul Lester Porter and Dorothy Marie (Ellis) Porter. Growing up in Haskins, Ohio. Ray graduated from Haskins High School as president of his senior class, playing on the varsity basketball and track teams.
Ray met his life partner, Wilma Jean Studer of Whitehouse, at a high school dance. They were married on August 20, 1949 and celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary before she passed away in December of 2019. They had 3 children who loved them dearly. Ray was drafted by the Army in 1951 and moved to Ft. Monmouth, NJ. There he developed lifelong bonds with the men of his unit which deeply influenced him for the rest of his life.
Ray had an extensive business career beginning as a salesman for Bostwick Braun Co. in Toledo, and ending as Group President of APV PLC, where he was responsible for a global group of packaging machinery companies. He retired in 1992, remaining active in the business community as a consultant and serving on corporate boards.
Despite a demanding career, Ray prioritized his family, offering love and wisdom along the way. He was a talented woodworker, building clocks, furniture, and many contemporary works of art.
Ray is survived by his children, Dean (Jean) Porter, Sandra (Sean) Gregory, and Jeffery (MaryAnn) Porter; 3 granddaughters, and 4 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by wife Wilma; infant daughter, Diane; and brother, Ora Porter.
Memorial service will be held at Christ United Methodist Church, 4509 Highcrest Rd, Rockford, IL 61107 on April 5, 2024. In lieu of flowers, donations to Carpenter's Place, 1149 Railroad Ave., Rockford, IL 61104, the YMCA of the Rock River Valley, 200 Y Blvd., Rockford, IL 61107, or Christ United Methodist Church would be appreciated. To share a memory or online condolence, visit www.olsonfh.com.
www.olsonfh.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Raymond Porter
2 Entries
John Crone
April 6, 2024
Ray was a very special person and all that knew him were blessed for that connection. Astute in business, kind in friendships, creative in his wood work skills, well read and well regarded across multiple businesses and multiple endeavors, he will be missed but long remembered. He was a member of the Alpine Bank board, one of many board memberships he filled and the bank grew and served their customers well partly due to Ray's guidance. He also served his church and the YMCA with wise counseling. Good and humble man.
Ida Velasco
April 4, 2024
A pleasure to know Ray and Wilma while neighbors on Landstrom Rd. A true old time gentleman. May he RIP. Sincere sympathy to the Porter children.
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