William Woodrow “Bill” Porter, Jr., 73 of Coldwater passed away Thursday, September 16, 2021 at Lakeland Rehab & Healthcare in Angola, while surrounded by his loving family.
A celebration of Bill’s life will take place from 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Thursday, September 23, 2021 at Oscar Brown’s at Bella Vista Golf Course.
The family was cared for by Dutcher Funeral Home.
William was born December 15, 1947 to William and Minnie (Cummins) Porter, Sr. in Sikeston, Missouri. Shortly after graduation from high school, Bill entered the U.S. Army and was sent to Viet Nam. Upon his return from the war, he finished his education earning a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from Western Michigan University. He used his military training and degree to have a long career in law enforcement. Bill began his career with the Michigan State Police, retiring as a Lieutenant in 1996. He then became the Manager of the Smith & Wesson Training Academy, where he traveled the world providing valuable training to many.
On June 12, 1994 he married Susan Porter in Coldwater. Together they created many memories.
Bill was a member of many police related organizations including The Michigan Sheriff’s Association, the International Law Enforcement Association, The Michigan State Policeman’s Association, the NRA, and others. During his time with Smith & Wesson he proudly became friends with Donald Trump. Bill trained many in the Trump Organization and Donald’s personal security staff. Bill will be remembered as a True American, spending his entire adult life protecting and serving the United States of America.
His most cherished time was being with his family, especially his grand and great grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by those that knew and loved him.
Bill is survived by his wife of 27 years, Susan Porter of Coldwater; his children William (Shelly) Porter III and Daniel (Sarah) Porter; his step-children Corry Pfost, Cassie (Paul) Tong, and Codey Preston all of Coldwater; his siblings Mary (Daniel) Emerick, Stanley Porter, Christopher (Donna) Porter, Martha Mitchell, and Douglas Porter; his grandchildren Logan, Ethan, Kayden, Abbey, Dylan, Emma, Kiestan, and Chloe Pfost, Zach Tong, Bianca (Ralph) Beerman, Ozzie, Cash, Amerie, and Cheyene Porter, Chelsea (Trevor) Merryman, Haeley (Ben) Lightner, and Lake Reed; his great grandchildren Sophia & Ted Beerman, Elliott Pfost, Easton, Everly, and Ensley Merryman, and Arlo Lightner; his special friends Kate (Dave) Fasick; his Yorkie “Cookie”; and many extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Kenneth Porter; his brother-in-law’s Jack Chaffins and Stephen Pfost; his nephew Joshua DeFrance; and his Yorkie “CoCo”.
Memorials may be directed to the Branch County Veteran’s Association or the Branch County Humane Society. www.dutcherfh.com
Bill was a great friend, and a great man so sorry to hear of his passing. Our prayers are with the family