William Ward Porter

After suffering a stroke nearly 20 years ago, and battling dementia the last many, Bill passed away peacefully at home in his sleep, on February 3, 2025, at the age of 77.

Bill was raised in Central Oregon, and graduated from Bend Senior High School in 1966. Bill answered the call to serve his country, and carefully selected and joined the United States Marine Corps in 1967. Bill’s selfless acts of heroism in the Vietnam War brought positive attention and commendation. Bill received the Good Conduct Medal, (2) Bronze Stars with Combat "V", Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnam Service Medal with Star, Vietnamese Campaign Medal with Star, National Defense Service Medal, and Purple Heart. Bill was honorably discharged in 1969 after being awarded the Purple Heart medal for wounds received in combat; shrapnel he carried in his body everyday, until the end.

Upon his return, Bill built a career in the Forestry and Wood Products Industry for over 30 years. He worked for Willamette Industries, and eventually, Weyerhaeuser.

In 1974, Bill had a daughter, Crystal, who was the apple of his eye. He loved being a dad, and he was great at it. Bill eventually met and married the love of his life, Joy, in 1983, when he gained 2 more daughters, Karen and Kelly. Bill's marriage to Joy spanned over 41 wonderful years together, and was built on the foundation of friendship, love, mutual respect, and unwavering support for each other, even when dementia took a strong hold.

Those who knew Bill, were aware he was a man of very few words. Always the strong, silent type, he would often answer a question with just 'a look'. He was loyal, hard-working, and a man built of immense character, integrity, and strength. He was a rock for his family, and his presence in their lives brought security, support and love.

In his early days, he could be found riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle around town. However, for the majority of his life, Bill will always be remembered as the avid outdoorsman. Being anywhere outdoors, especially hunting or fishing, was his favorite place to be. Bill also enjoyed tying flies for fly fishing, tinkering in his garage and creating wood projects with his hands, jigsaw puzzles, spending quality time with his family, and at any given moment, could be spotted with one of his little dogs in his arms.

Bill will be deeply missed by his family. His legacy of determination, understanding, words of wisdom, and love, will live on inside their hearts forever.

Bill's family would like to offer a special thank you to Bill's son-in-law, Tyee. As Bill's main caregiver in his final months, Tyee's kindness, attentiveness, patience, overall supervision and safekeeping, provided the entire family with immense support and comfort. Witnessing their special friendship unfold, was truly a privilege.

Bill didn't want a big fuss, so no official memorial will be held. Instead, his family would like you to please consider the following, in his honor: 1) Perform a random act of kindness for a stranger. 2) At some point in the near future, gift yourself a trip, deep into the outdoors. Stay present in the moment: look, listen, see and feel the wilderness all around you; Bill's favorite place to be.