Kenneth Porter

Kenneth (Ken) Wells Porter

December 31, 1931 – September 14, 2019

Ken passed away on September 14, 2019 in Redmond, OR at the age of 87 from complications of pneumonia.  Ken is survived by his loving wife Patty of 47 years; his children Eric and Marika Porter; step-sons Ted and Tim Talboy; grandchildren Janine McCluskey and Austin Talboy, brothers Bob and Bill Porter and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Ken was born December 31, 1931 in Berkeley, Calif. to Robert and Mary Porter (both deceased).  He was raised in Berkeley, Calif. with his two brothers, Bob and Bill, where all three brothers attended the University of California at Berkeley (Cal) thereby continuing in their parents’ footsteps.  There he received a BA in International Relations.  Ken continued his education at the Pacific School of Religion (PSR) in Berkeley earning a Bachelor of Divinity degree in 1957   Ken became an ordained Methodist Minister and served in that capacity from 1957 to 1962 at the Etna Methodist church in Etna, CA and the Church of the Good Shepherd in Richmond, CA.  During his service at both churches, Ken became increasingly interested in Pastoral counseling and Psychology.  He returned to San Francisco State University where he earned his MA in Psychology in 1966.  He worked in the Oak Grove School District as a School Psychologist from 1966 until his retirement in 1995.  Ken also enjoyed a part time private practice as a licensed Marriage, Family and Child Counselor and taught various Child Development classes at local colleges in the Bay area.  Ken held several elected offices including the Presidency in CASP (Calif. Assn. of School Psychologists) during his working years.

Ken enjoyed a rich and varied life.  He was musically talented, playing guitar and singing tenor with various groups from the age of 5.  Along with music, Ken had a keen ear for linguistics becoming proficient in Spanish and semi-proficient in French and German.  He and Patty enjoyed years of bicycle touring the U.S and France with friends and tour groups.  They travelled many countries highlighted by Ken’s anticipated walk on the Great Wall of China. 

Ken’s gentle demeanor, his quick smile and intellect, his charming wit and loving nature was a treasure to his family and friends.  Our loss is Heaven’s gift.

Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Country Side Living, 1350 NW Canal Blvd., Redmond, OR or Heart ‘n Home Hospice, 745 NW Mt, Washington Dr. Suite 205, Bend, OR.  Both Ken and his family thank you.

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