Final Salute

January 4, 1931 – October 5, 2023

Spokane – Raymond (Ray) was born in Hebron, IL, to Raymond Sr. and Gladys Porter. He grew up with his sister and brother on the family farm, learning about long days of hard work. He graduated in 1948, and then followed his dream to join the Navy. He spent seven years training and working different ratings, before deciding to join the Seabees in 1956. For the next 28 years, he worked with the Construction Battalion (Seabees) in the US Navy. He repaired war-beaten churches and buildings, built schools and playgrounds, and put up and took down many bunkers. He retired in 1984 as BUC Raymond, Chief Builder.

Ray was a skilled contractor, a talented artist, and a master gardener, but he knew his greatest achievement was his family. He did everything right when it came to loving them. He was happily married to his wife, Mary Ann, for 48 years and prided himself on being a kind and dependable husband, father, and grandfather. He taught his kids about responsibility, honesty, and loyalty. He loved them all deeply.

He is survived by his wife, his children, and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, and sister.

A service of military honors will be held at Holy Cross on November 10th at 2:00pm.

Ray leaves behind a legacy of honesty, integrity, tenacity, and love and he will be deeply missed by all his family and friends who had the honor of knowing him.

He is probably up there watching Gonzaga basketball, eating homemade oyster stew, drinking a glass of red wine…and being so happy to NOT have any pills to take. My gosh do we miss him.

Published by Spokesman-Review on Nov. 5, 2023.