Waldo Edwards Porter
Jan. 6, 1923 to April 23, 2014
Waldo Edwards Porter, 91, of Anderson, passed away April 23, 2014 at Bethany Pointe with his family and close friend at his side.
Waldo was born January 6, 1923 in Flora, Illinois to Vern and Daisy (Edwards) Porter. His family moved to Anderson in 1928, where he attended Roosevelt Elementary School. He graduated from Anderson High School in 1942. Following high school, he worked briefly at Howe Fire Apparatus and Guide Lamp.
During WW II, he served his country with honor in the United States Army. As a tank commander, he landed in Normandy, France with the 735th Tank battalion. Following a year's recovery in England and American hospitals, he was awarded the Purple Heart for a lifetime disabling combat wound.
He was employed as a letter carrier with the Post Office for 33 honorable years until his retirement in 1978. The final 20 years of his service were spent carrying mail to the Town of Edgewood. Following retirement, he provided his expertise in numerous construction projects with Fuel Systems Equipment.
As a youth, Waldo became a member of Bethany Christian Church. During the 60's and 70's, he and wife Josephine served as youth leaders and provided direction to many young men and women. He also served diligently as a Sunday School teacher, deacon, elder and in whatever capacity he was called to fulfill. When Southern Heights Christian Church was established, he was challenged to offer his leadership to that new outreach.
He is survived by two sons, John (Rhea) Colson; Larry (Joyce) Hutcherson and daughter-in-law Debbie Porter; grandchildren, Jonathan (Alice) Colson, Rhajon (Todd) Smith; Kristin Colson; Meagan (Kurt) Bodell and Morgan (John) Pryor; great grandchildren, Ethan Colson; Layla and Henley Pryor; Malina Bodell and Alethea Smith.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Josephine (Brockman) Porter; brother Pearl Pierson; sisters Genell Hamilton and Idell Allen.
Waldo had very recently mourned the untimely loss of his son, Ed (Eddie) Porter and remarked the morning of his passing, that he was greatly anticipating a "bear hug" from Eddie.
He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews along with caring and faithful friend, Velma Snider.
Waldo demonstrated daily his devotion to his Lord by sharing his faith and love for others.
The family would like to acknowledge the caring and considerate staff at Bethany Pointe Health Campus and Crown Pointe Senior Living facilities.
Services will be 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service with Bob Bell officiating. Burial will be in Anderson Memorial Park Cemetery.
Visitation will be on Monday, April 28, from 4 to 7 P.M. and Tuesday, April 29 from 9 to 10 A.M. at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be given to Bethany Christian Church.
Post online condolences at www.rozelle-johnson.com.