James Michael Porter

James Michael (Mike) Porter, 69, of Danville, Illinois died on Saturday, March 1, 2020 at 2:14pm at OSF Sacred Heart Medical Center in Danville, surrounded by his family.

Mike was born in Danville, IL on July 11, 1950 to Robert H. Porter Sr. and Evalyn B. (Epperson) Porter Sellers.

He is survived by three daughters, Jamie (Oscar) Lopez of Covington IN, Amy Porter of Westville and Amanda Porter (Chris Atwood) of Danville; six grandchildren, Brent (Trisha) Lopez, Preslie (Geddy) Harp, Kacie Lopez, Jaiden Porter, Raenyn Sliva and Leylah Atwood; three great-grandchildren, Wrenlee Harp, Grayson Porter and Maverick Lopez; his brother David (Mary Beth) Porter of Columbus, Indiana; sister Wilma (Sue) Porter of Danville, Illinois and numerous nieces and nephews. He will be especially missed by his nephew, Joe (Terri Sue) Rhymer and several close friends.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, Betty Zimmerman, Donna Porter, Carol Porter and one brother, Robert H. (Butch) Porter Jr.

Mike graduated from Oakwood High School 1967. He served in the US Army from July 1967 - February 1970 with two years bravely served in Vietnam. Mike was very proud of his military service and the many awards and medals he earned, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal & the Army Commendation Medal. Mike was a hero inside and out to his family and to his fellow soldiers in Bravo Company, 34th Engineers, US Army Republic of Vietnam. He continued the fight with the effects from Agent Orange from war till the end of his life, never giving up. 

Following his military service, he attended Bossier City Technical School in Bossier City, Louisiana. Over the years Mike had been employed by Valcom, Quaker Oats, and Western Southern Insurance and as a self employed HVAC technician.

Mike loved fishing and playing pool, but most of all he loved spending time with his family & friends including his Steak-N-Shake (South) buddies.

Our family wishes to thank the OSF ICU nurses and physicians for their compassion and kindness during Mike’s final days. 

A memorial service to honor Mr. Porter will be on Friday, March 6, 2020, at the VA Protestant Chapel, 1900 East Main St. Danville. Burial will be at the National Cemetery in Danville with full military honors. Visitation will be held at the chapel from 11am-12:30pm with funeral and graveside service to follow immediately after. Chaplain Cynthia Harris will be officiating.

For online condolences, please visit www.rortvedtfuneralservices.com 

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