Michael David Portman

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Mike lived a life marked by service, love, and unshakable faith.  

A military serviceman, Mike served his country with honor and distinction, including time stationed in Greece, Germany, the Department of the Army in Alexandria, Virginia., and Fort Knox where he retired as an Army Sergeant First Class. He carried the discipline and loyalty of his service into every chapter of his life, embodying the values he so deeply believed in. 

His professional journey was as diverse as it was impactful - he held a graduate degree in Business Administration and served as Vice Principal at Holy Cross High School, worked as a probation and parole officer, and was a founding member of Moving Forward Amputee Support Group, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting amputees and their families. Through every role, he uplifted those around him and left behind a legacy of service and compassion. 

He was a lifelong and dedicated member of St. Luke Catholic Church, where he not only worshiped, but served. After the devastating fire in 1997, he was instrumental in the church’s recovery and rebuilding, offering both leadership and hope.  He also served as a trustee for the Okolona Fire Department for over 20 years, a role he cherished deeply. 

An amateur historian and the family genealogist, Mike held a reverence for the past, while remaining deeply rooted in the care of those present and centered in his life. He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Susan “Vonnie” Flood Portman - his greatest friend, his steadfast partner, and the love of his life. Together, they built a family rooted in faith, wit, humor, and boundless support. He was endlessly proud of his son David (Stephanie), who carried on the family tradition of military service, and his daughter Jennifer, a passionate educator and nurturing mother. He was a loving grandfather to Kaleb (Nicole), Collin (Jaylee), Cameron (Kaylynn), Maggie, bonus grandsons Robby and Nick, and great granddaughter Lilith, each of whom brought him joy beyond measure. 

He is preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Mary Jane and Perry Mobley; his father, George Carl Portman; his brother, William Carl Portman; and his sister, Joyce Portman Palmer.  

He will be missed and always remembered by his baby sister, Janie (Theresa), who was always close to his heart, as well as his many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, lifelong friends, neighbors, fellow parishioners, firefighters, and service members. 

He lived a life that touched so many. His strength was quiet, his humor dry, and his heart, immeasurably large. 

Visitation to be Thursday, October 9, 2025, 2 pm to 8 pm, at Schoppenhorst, Underwood & Brooks Funeral Home (4895 N Preston Hwy, Shepherdsville, KY 40165). Funeral service to be Friday, October 10, 2025 at 11:00 am at St. Luke Church (4211 Jim Hawkins Dr, Louisville, KY 40229). Graveside Service at Louisville Memorial Gardens following funeral (4400 Dixie Hwy, Louisville, KY 40216). A bereavement meal will be served at St. Luke Church following burial service.