Obituary of Richard A. Porter

Richard A. Porter, 80, passed away on January 22, 2024. 

He was born on December 1, 1943, to Delbert and Mary Rose Porter in Goldendale, WA. During high school he enjoyed playing football and basketball. Richard attended Yakima Junior College and later Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he managed the college’s cow herd. He received his BA in Animal Science there, after serving in the army for two years while stationed in South Korea. 

He married and moved to Elgin, OR, in 1970 where he had his children and brought up his family.  He was an active part of the farming and ranching community raising horses and beef cattle. He developed a great skill in handling and training horses and enjoyed competing in cutting horse competitions. He later moved to Union, OR. He worked at Boise Cascade for many years and retired in 2008. He also kept busy as a farrier well into his 70’s. His children, Tammy, Todd, and their families were his pride and joy. Richard had a passion for horses, cattle, and friends, always offering a smile and his time to many over the years.

Richard is survived by his children Tammy Massey (Noel), Todd Porter (Diane); grandchildren Jordan, Tyler; and brothers Pat and Ken. He was preceded in death by his parents. 

A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, April 5, 2024, at 7 pm at Homestead Country Gathering, 60588 McAlister Road, La Grande, OR.