Porter, Ralph, 76, Washburn; in Caribou, June 18, 2009. Arrangements in the care of Lancaster-Morgan Funeral Home, Caribou.
Washburn – Ralph E. Porter, 76, husband of Clara Porter, died Thursday, June 18, 2009 at the VA Nursing Home in Caribou, following a long illness.
He was born in Caribou, October 21, 1932, the son of James "Archie" and Mamie (Good) Porter.
Mr. Porter served in the U.S. Air Force and retired as a civil servant from Loring Air Force Base after 36 years of faithful service.
He enjoyed spending time at his camp in Gardner Creek, fishing, hunting, and riding his four wheeler. Ralph was an avid reader, who enjoyed the poetry of Robert Service. Ralph had a quick wit and dry sense of humor, which he maintained during his illness. He loved to play the guitar and listen to country music. Johnny Cash, Hank Williams Sr. and Allison Krauss were among his favorites.
Ralph is survived by his wife of 53 years, Clara (Maynard) Porter and four daughters and their families, Lola and Donald Heath of Bangor, Lona and Robert Griffeth of Caribou, Lorri and Perry Jackson of Presque Isle, and Leslie and Erik Weeks of New Gloucester; ten grandchildren, Jessica McMahon, Jason Griffeth, Joel Griffeth, Joshua Heath, Jordan Heath, Emily Heath, Daniel Jackson, Kyle Jackson, Jacob Weeks, Thomas Weeks, and one great-grandchild, Kapri Griffeth. Ralph is also survived by two sisters, Pauline Bausemer of Boston and Arlene McNeal of Brewer. Ralph was predeceased by his brother, James Jr., and one sister, Mary Nadeau.
Visiting hours were held on Sunday, June 21 from 3 – 5 p.m. at Lancaster-Morgan Funeral Home, 11 Clover Street, Caribou. Funeral services were held Monday, June 22, at 1 p.m. at Lancaster-Morgan Funeral Home with Pastor Clark Jalbert officiating.
Friends who wish to contribute in memory of Ralph may do so through the Maine Alzheimer's Association or the Washburn Memorial Library. Friends may express their condolences to the family at www.lancastermorgan.com.
