Charles Lloyd Porterfield

Charles Porterfield was born August 22, 1922 in Lamar, Colorado and was called home by the Lord on October 23, 2013. His family moved to Arizona when he was 5 years old. He graduated from Clarkdale High School then worked for a short while on a Dude Ranch in Northern Arizona. He later moved to San Diego where he trained at Ryan Aeronautical School as an airplane mechanic. After completing his training he worked for a while in Tucson ant then moved to Blythe, California, continuing his work as an airplane mechanic. While in Blythe he enlisted in the US Air Corps Reserve where he continued working as a mechanic. In 1943 he was married to Ruth Hawkins of Douglas, Arizona. In 1944 they moved to Burbank, California and began working for TWA airlines. While there he studied to upgrade his mechanic license for civilian work. He transferred to Phoenix in 1945 and began working evenings and weekends studying to become a pilot. Charles later began his own business, Porterfield Air Service. After several years he sold this business and began Canyon State Contracting where he did construction of parks and roadways in the National Forests. After some years at this work he sold out to return to the aircraft business. He worked at Sawyer Aviation as a salesman. Later he began work again in his own business as a mechanic and charter pilot. He was forced to quit this work in 1997 because of failing eyesight and loss of hearing.

In addition to his love of aeronautics and mechanics Charles also tried his hand at running a motel, selling aircraft parts, auto rentals, and many other short term businesses. He was a simple and humble man and will be missed by all who were blessed to know him.

Charles is survived by his wife of seventy years Ruth, five children, twelve grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great grandchildren.

Preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and five sisters.

Visitation will be on Friday, November 1st from 6-8pm at West Resthaven Funeral Home with Funeral on Saturday, November 2nd at 11:00 am. He will be laid to rest at Resthaven Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Banner Hospice or any hospice of your choice.

Condolences may be left at www.westresthavenfuneralhome.com