Fred Elbert Porter of Richland WA passed away peacefully on July 14 at the age of 96.
He was born on December 8,1927 in Erie, PA. to Herbert and Minnie Porter. Fred grew up in Harbor Creek PA and Findley Lake NY.
Fred graduated from Clymer Central School in 1945 and attended Behrend Center, Penn State, after serving in the Navy. He eventually went to work for General Electric in Erie PA and then transferred to Richland in 1959 here he worked at the Hanford site for many years and various site contractors. He was especially proud of the fact that he earned his Professional Engineer certification as a Mechanical Engineer after many years of taking correspondence courses.
Fred will be remembered for his positive attitude, willingness to help others, ability to make friends, generosity and kindness. An avid outdoorsman, flying his sailplane and Taylor Craft airplane, hunting, fishing, shooting, gold prospecting, golfing, bowling, and softball were among the many recreational activities that Fred enjoyed .
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Harold “Herky” and Lloyd Porter and sister Dolores Wilkinson and special friend Ila Buchanan.
Fred is survived by his brother Ronald (Kimberly) Porter, nieces Pam Watrous, Sue Ottaway, Lynne Spraker, Lori Wilson, Amanda Porter and Katherine Porter, nephews Scott Porter, Matthew Porter and sister-in-law Margaret Porter. And many great nieces and nephews. He will be especially missed by Charlie and Ellie Pearlman and Kiley and John Porter.
Fred convinced Ron to move to Washington in 1964 to pursue his education and to help him with the construction of his sailplane. They spent many hours working together on the sailplane and hunting and fishing.
The family would like to thank friends Tony, Tom, neighbors Steve and Kim Zimmerman and CNS Cares nurse Nancy G. for the friendship and care they showed in recent months.
A private celebration will take place in Findley Lake, NY. Burial will take place at Mina Cemetery, Findley Lake New York.