Joseph James Porter, 67, passed away Wednesday, April 19, 2017 in OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital following an extended illness.
Joe was born May 14, 1949 in Cadiz, Ohio to James and Hazel (White) Porter and grew up working on the family farm. After graduating from Fredericktown High School, he earned a two-year technical degree and later attended The Ohio State University in Mansfield.
During the Vietnam War he joined the Air Force and served four years stationed in Alaska.
Joe worked in Mansfield with the 179th Airlift Wing, a unit of the Ohio Air National Guard. He started as a security officer and worked up to his dream job in Aerial Port. Joe was very proud to serve alongside his work family.
Joe’s sanctuary was his 35-acre “farm” where he put to use his skills of building and fixing all over the property. He was a lover of animals and opened his home to many dogs through Maple Hill Farm Toy Breed Rescue.
His greatest character trait was supportiveness. Joe supported his family by working hard, and he supported his wife through every dream she’s had. He was a talented baker and will be greatly missed.
Joe was a member of Gay St. United Methodist Church in Mt. Vernon and previously North Liberty United Methodist.
He is survived by his loving wife of almost 40 years, Dawn Porter, of North Liberty; two sons (and spouses) Adam and Jennifer Porter, of Mansfield, and Brett Porter and Jeffrey Lamb, of Galloway; two grandchildren Cameron Porter and Rachel Porter; siblings Robert (Carol) Porter, David (Barbi) Porter, William (Vicki) Porter, Mary Selby, and John Porter.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents and an infant sister.
Friends may call 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 29, 2017 in the Bellville Snyder Funeral Home (81 Mill Rd.) where a memorial service celebrating his life will begin at 2 p.m. Rev. Denise L. Marikis will officiate and military honors will be performed by American Legion Post #535 of Bellville.
Contributions in his memory to Gay St. United Methodist Church may be made at the funeral home.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Joe’s family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence to them — and watch his tribute video — at SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
