Colene S. Porter

Colene Sue Hornecker was born on August 19, 1931, on a farm in the small town of Mound City, Missouri. She had fond memories of attending school in a one-room school house that had allthe children from grades kindergarten through eighth grade. She and her sister would be escorted to and from their home by their family dog, Spot. Spot would sleep by an open fireplace located in the classroom and, when school was out, Sport would lead the girls home, barking off any strangers who would dare get close to them.

Colene’s mom, Fern, was a teacher, and she made sure her daughters kept up with their studies. Her father, Herb, maintained the farm. Farm life was fun for the sisters, but became too challenging for their parents, so they decided to move to California. They bought a small house in Arcadia and this proved to be a great move for Colene. At the larger schools in Arcadia, she was able to participate in several sports, which she excelled in. She also took a fling at acting and had the lead female role in several plays. In her senior year she was given the Thesbian Award for the best female actress.

After high school, Colene enrolled at Woodbury College in Los Angeles, where she joined a sorority and was also named the campus Beauty Queen. In her final semester of school, Colene was offered a position to be the personal secretary for the president of Woodbury. After graduating from college, not only did she have her degree, she had an engagement ring presented to her by her college sweetheart, Bob.

Bob and Colene were married on January 9, 1953. Their marriage has been one of great happiness. They shared many things in common and especially loved dancing together. They love the West Coast Swing and danced it almost every place they went. Colene and Bob also enjoyed sailing. Their Catalina 37 named “Conquest” was one of their favorite boats they owned. Colene’s favorite spot on the boat was lying in a bunk below, while Bob was at the helm. The rougher the sea, the more she liked it!

Colene and Bob were blessed with a wonderful family. They had four sons, Chris, Don, Randy and Bobby, their beautiful wives, 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Colene was a very warm and caring person who made friends everywhere she lived. One of Colene’s granddaughter’s, Katie, shared, “One of the greatest memories I will always have is getting to live with my Grandma for a few months each year at our house in Michigan. I would come home from school and just sit and talk with Grandma. She was always there for me with words of wisdom and encouragement, a listening ear and great snacks. She was an amazing cook and hard worker. I am so thankful God has blessed me with such wonderful grandparents.”

Colene’s service will be held at Pacific View Memorial Park and Mortuary in Corona del Mar, California, at 2 pm on July 1. Visitation will be at 1 pm, with the interment to follow the service.