Obituary: James A. Porter

James A. Porter of Dewey, Arizona, passed away on Oct. 18, 2017. He was born on Jan. 3, 1928, in Enid, Oklahoma, to Francis N. and Elizabeth R. Porter.

He was married to the love of his life, Rosalie, for 67 years.

He is survived by his wife, Rosalie; five children, Jacque Leerssen (Darcy) of Columbus, Georgia, Ronald (Kathryn) of Boise, Idaho, Craig (Liz) of Tucson, Arizona, Beth Myers (Warren) and Andy (Cyndi) of Phoenix, Arizona.

He was the proud grandpa of 14 grandchildren and 31 great grandchildren.

He was one of four boys and is survived by his brothers, William (Diane) and Joseph Porter. He served in the Army and worked for the US Post Office.

In 1955, he moved his young family from Pratt, Kansas, to Phoenix, Arizona. He was a long time Postal Carrier in Scottsdale, Arizona, and worked in the Paradise Valley Town Hall substation. He lived in Pratt, Kansas, and Phoenix, Scottsdale, Overgaard and Dewey, Arizona.

He was a quiet and patient man who loved his family, the outdoors, sports, music and many hobbies.

James was an Eagle Scout and he led an Explorer Post through many trips hiking the Grand Canyon and to Jamborees. He taught his children and grandchildren to work hard, learn by doing and enjoy making, building and improving their homes, build their dreams and follow their hearts. James loved to play cards, games, was a master at dominoes and always had a puzzle in progress. He and Rosalie spent much of their retirement in community service helping others by donating their time, resources and homemade goods.

Information provided by survivors.