Robert "Bob" Charles Porter

Bob was born at home in Grand Ledge to Charles Robert and Dorothy Porter. He was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School, class of 1957, and went on to earn an Associates Degree from Ferris State College. Bob worked at Winstanley Pontiac Dealership of Grand Ledge, Stowell Oldsmobile, and Starnaman Oldsmobile. Bob married Mary Sue Stiles in the summer of 1962. His next venture was owning the Pure Oil Gas Station on Jefferson St., followed by learning to hang wallpaper and paint at Michigan Paint Store, all before he became a full time firefighter for the City of Grand Ledge. Bob eventually retired as Captain after 32 years of service, which was his proudest career accomplishment. They had two children and were married for 61 years. His proudest family moments were helping their daughter Pamela fight cancer and their son Roderick becoming a lawyer. Bob was an avid small engine mechanic in his retirement, working out of his happy place, the pole barn. He would drop everything to help anybody at anytime. He enjoyed his free time with his young family in the summers on beautiful Guernsey Lake. He would winter in Arizona for the last 25 years. He and Mary Sue became accomplished ballroom and round dance partners. His favorite memories were dancing to “Stardust” and “When I Grow too Old to Dream”.

Bob is survived by wife Mary Sue Porter; son Roderick (Dana) Porter of Grand Ledge; grandchildren Samantha (Corey) Tijerina of Houston, TX; Alex (Bailey) Porter of Grand Ledge; and Michael Porter of Allegan, MI; great grandchildren Maximus and Lucius Tijerina; twin sister Patricia Spirer of Washington, DC; sister Dolly Porter of Lansing, MI; sister-in-law Bonnie Christensen of Memphis, TN; and second cousins Kathy (Gary) Burt of Grand Ledge. Bob was predeceased by daughter and son-in-law Pamela and Michael Loeb.

Cremation has taken place. Private family burial will take place at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grlansing.com for the Porter family.