PALM BEACH, FLA. – Berton Homer Porter, 92, passed away in December, 2016, surrounded by his family, in Palm Beach, Fla.
Born in Mapleton, for more than 30 years, he grew and sold potatoes on State Road and later in Western and Central New York, where he and his wife raised their family.
Homer enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II and served aboard the U.S.S. Lyons (troop carrier) and the U.S.S. Adams (mine sweeper) as a gunner’s mate in the Pacific. He was a life-long member of the VFW and member of the American Legion. He was buried in the Rose (NY) Cemetery with Full Navy Honors on July 1, 2017.
Following his farming career, Homer was employed by the NYS Canal System for nearly 20 years as Chief Lock Operator and President of the local union and served on numerous local, regional and state committees for the Civil Service Employees Association.
Known for his quiet smile and respect for all people, he was predeceased by his parents, Berton and Olive Bagley Porter of Eagle Lake; and brothers, Carleton Porter of Mapleton and Ivan Porter of Ashland. He is survived by his sister, Blanche Littlefield of Waterville; his wife of 68 years, Rachel McGlauflin Porter of Presque Isle; five children, eleven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
