RACINE - Claire William Porter, 90, passed away at Autumn Home on Wednesday, February 9, 2011. Claire was born on July 15, 1920, to James and Vera (nee: Yoemans) Porter. Claire married the former Dolores Adel at St. John's Lutheran Church on June 28, 1947. He served in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. Claire worked as an Auto Mechanic at Pendelton Oldsmobile. Known for his ability to "fix anything," he enjoyed woodworking, home renovation, fixing cars, playing cards with his friends, and was always willing to help others with their projects. Most of all, he loved being surrounded by his family. Claire was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, where he served on numerous boards and committees, especially Trustees and the Organ Renovation Committee. Claire is survived by his dear wife of 63 years, Dolores Porter; children, Rev. Donald C. (Lorraine) Porter, Thomas (Julie) Porter, Janet (Emmanuel) Vuvunas, and Kristine (Scott) Phillips; grandchildren, Connie (Charles) Poth, Robert (Melissa) Porter, Linda (Curt) Leggenhager, Timothy (Jennifer) Porter, Kathryn Porter, Sarah Porter, Andrew (Samantha) Phillips, Michael Phillips, Nicholas Phillips, and Elizabeth Phillips; and great-grand- children, Christine and Caitlin Poth, Paige and Dayne Leggenhager, and James, Phoebe, and Brooke Porter. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. Claire was preceded in death by an infant son, David; his parents; and his brothers, George and Louis Porter. Funeral service for Claire will be held at St. John Lutheran Church on Monday, February 14, 2011, at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Daniel B. Quinn officiating. Interment will follow in West Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the church on Monday morning from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Memorials to St. John's Lutheran Church or Racine Lutheran High School have been suggested. Grateful thanks to Dr. Patricio Ilada, the staffs of Autumn Home, Wheaton Franciscan Dialysis West, Home and Hospice Advantage, and to the Lord God for a long life full of blessings. PURATH-STRAND FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY 3915 Douglas Avenue 639-8000 www.purath-strand.com

Published in Racine Journal Times on February 11, 2011