Jack W. Porter, Sr.

PORTER, Jack W., Sr. - Age 87, of Swartz Creek, died Sunday, December 18, 2005 at his residence. A Memorial service will be held 2 PM Thursday, December 22, 2005 at Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Rd., Swartz Creek. Pastor Jim Nelson will officiate. Military honors will follow under the auspices of Swartz Creek VFW/AmVets Post #3720. Interment will take place at a later date in Great Lakes National Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12 Noon until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to the American Cancer Society (for research) or Avalon Hospice. Jack was born August 4, 1918 in Jackson, the son of Francis M. and Pearl E. (Strawser) Porter and was a 1936 graduate of Jackson High School. He was married to Hazel Jeannette Nelson on October 20, 1945 in Jackson. Mr. Porter was a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Force, serving in WWII. He was a Prisoner of War in Stalag 17b for over a year; he then escaped and it was over a month before he reached allied lines. Mr. Porter was an officer of The Michigan State Police for 25 years, retiring in 1967. They had moved to Swartz Creek 1957. He was an avid downhill skier until age 72, a skilled woodcarver, and enjoyed traveling, camping and playing the guitar. Surviving are: his loving wife of 60 years, Hazel; children Nelson and wife Glenna (Ellis) Porter, Janita and husband Dan Ream; grandchildren, Duane Porter, Amy (Porter) and husband Matt Moros, Brent and wife Teresa (Alexander) Porter, Aricka and Amber Ream; great-grandchildren, Crystal Porter, Jakob and Jordan Moros. Mr. Porter was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Pauline; son, Jack, Jr. 'Winn' and wife Teri. Friends may share an on-line condolence or post a tribute for the family at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com