Terrance Michael (Mike) Porter

Terrance Michael (Mike) Porter, of Beaverton, Oregon passed away peacefully at home on August 14th, 2023 from pancreatic cancer. He was born on November 16th, 1945 in Austin, Texas to Nathan Dewitt Porter Jr. and Robin Porter Curry. In 1963, he graduated from Highlands High School in Sacramento, California. He drove his Triumph TR3 to Oregon State University, joined the Phi Delta Theta fraternity and earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1968. He was an active member of Navy ROTC and upon graduation was commissioned an Ensign in the United States Navy.

Mike was married to Barbara Allan on June 15th, 1967 in Portland, Oregon. He is survived by his wife of over 56 years and three children, Brian (Kari) Porter of Portland, Shari (Jason) Smith of Tualatin and Jeff (Sally) Porter of Sammamish, Washington. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter Sydney and is survived by his grandchildren Taylor, Jack, Charlie, Gabrielle, Cole and Morgan. He is also survived by his siblings, Mauri Porter, Richard Curry, Laura Harris and nieces and nephew.

Mike moved around a lot as a child due his father’s military service, living overseas in England and Germany as well as California, Texas and other states. After college, he fulfilled his lifelong dream of being a Navy jet pilot, earning his wings in August of 1969. In 1974, he completed his active duty in the military having achieved the rank of Navy Captain. Including his time in the Navy Reserves, he served over 26 years in the military. After his active duty, Mike started his career as a Professional Engineer working for various firms. He went on to work at Intel where he moved into project management. He earned his Masters in Education in Training and Development in 1992. He worked at Intel for 20 years where he led multiple Intel construction projects, including Fab’s in Albuquerque, New Mexico and Dublin, Ireland. After Intel, he worked as a consultant, sharing his vast knowledge for building and managing teams and delivering complex construction projects. His leadership and attention to detail on safety across all his projects, no doubt prevented injuries and saved lives. He excelled in many aspects of his life.

Mike had a long list of hobbies and volunteering with youth, including Boy Scout Leader, Little League Coach, Toastmasters, and recumbent cycling. In retirement he blossomed into a true renaissance man, developing talent in woodturning, sketching, and (as he liked to call himself) a “perspiring artist in watercolor”. He befriended many people across his various endeavors such as the Easy Rider Recumbent Club, Alla Prima Portland art club and the Northwest Woodturners. Mike and Barb enjoyed memorable trips to Europe, keeping in touch with friendships nurtured over decades.

In January 2019, Mike took on a new challenge as he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He often referred to himself as a ‘cancer thriver’ and relied on Stoicism philosophy to gain perspective. He donated all the proceeds from his fine wood and art work to support pancreatic cancer research. He truly embodied the Seneca quote “Life, if you know how to use it, is long.”

Mike was a role model as a husband, father and friend. He was an admirable human with a beautiful way of looking at life. His warmth and kindness will remain with us all.

A service will be held in the near future. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to PanCAN (pancan.org).