Charles Patrick Porter

Charles Patrick "Pat" Porter was born in Bend, Oregon, to Charles and Kathryn (Quinn) Porter on August 23, 1940, and after a life well lived, passed away January 16, 2025. He attended St. Francis School (now McMenamins) and Tumalo grade schools. He enjoyed spending his youth hunting, fishing, riding horses and raising steers in 4H. He graduated from Redmond High School in 1958, where he was active in baseball, football, bowling and was a member of FFA, having had two Champion steers in the Deschutes County Fair. Pat was also in ROTC and graduated from Portland University in 1962. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force in August 1962. He retired in 1986 at Edwards AFB, Lancaster, CA as a full Colonel. He married his first wife the former Anne MacDonald of Prineville and they had three children. During their marriage the military took them to Air Force bases in the U.S. as well as a tour in Wiesbaden, Germany, where their youngest son was born. In 1991, he married Gail Keithley Lamson in Long Beach, CA, where he retired from McDonnell Douglas Corp. in 1995 and returned to Bend in 1997. Pat and Gail spent many active and wonderful years in Central Oregon, enjoying hiking, skiing, golf and fishing with their boat, as well as RVing and traveling to all corners of the world. They were rarely apart for over 33 years. Pat was an active member of the Central Oregon Military Officers Association, having held many board positions. It may be said of Pat that his word was his bond, and that he spoke ill of no man, (except maybe some politicians). These two qualities in themselves would endear him to all, but he also possessed the knack of friendliness, and a dry sense of humor. Pat was predeceased by his parents, daughter Catherine, a sister, and step-son. He is survived by his loving wife Gail Porter, their journey together was one of shared adventure, laughter, tears, and unwavering commitment to each other; his sons Mark (Karen) Porter, Charles "Chip" Porter, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by step-son Jerry (Jackie) Lamson and two step-grandchildren. A Memorial Service is scheduled for Thursday, January 30, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Niswonger-Reynolds Funeral Home, 105 NW Irving Avenue in Bend. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations may be made in Pat's name to the Central Oregon Veterans Ranch, 65920 SW 61st St, Bend, OR 97703. The family would also like to give their gratitude to the Oncology staff at Summit Health and Partners in Care Hospice.

Tributes

Charles Patrick Porter

August 23, 1940 - January 16, 2025