Richard Porter

Richard "Dick" Porter, a beloved father, grandfather, and cherished friend to many, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on July 19, 1940, in Seattle, Dick was the cherished son of Frank and Clara Porter. His life was a tapestry of love, community, and an unwavering commitment to those around him. Dick spent his formative years in the vibrant city of Seattle, where he graduated from Shelton High School. His passion for understanding the world led him to pursue an economics degree from Western University, which set the stage for a fulfilling career. It was during his time working at the Federal Reserve Bank in Seattle that he met the love of his life, Kay Wallace. The couple married in October 1961 and shared over 62 wonderful years together before Kay's passing. Their marriage was a testament to love, partnership, and a shared passion for music, as they sang in choirs across every church they attended and with the esteemed Whatcom Chorale. Dick's life was marked by his deep connections with family, friends, and the community. He is lovingly remembered by his children, Lori and Beverly (Leland) Porter, and his three grandchildren, Katie (Nate), Katrina, and Moss. As a devoted grandfather, Dick cherished the time spent with his grandchildren, passing on his love for gardening and birding, especially to his granddaughter, Katie. A man of many talents, Dick gravitated towards leadership roles within various organizations. His contributions ranged from serving as a treasurer and participating in search committees at church to organizing music for Whatcom Chorale and orchestrating local and national dahlia shows. His mentorship extended beyond these roles, as he was a champion for education, often hosting seminars for growers across the Pacific Northwest and nurturing the younger generation of birders, gardeners, and colleagues. Dick's passion for gardening, particularly for cultivating vibrant dahlias, was a lifelong pursuit. As a Master Gardener, he shared the fruits of his labor with neighbors, congregations, and even strangers, embodying his generous spirit. His love for birding grew with time, leading him to travel across the United States and as far as Brazil, always eager to share these adventures with family and friends. Seeing and recording his 700th bird species in his final year was a source of immense joy. Dick's adventurous spirit and insatiable curiosity were evident in every journey he undertook. Whether it was a winding road trip or a bird-watching excursion, he always sought the path less traveled, taking in the beauty of the world around him. His legacy is not only in the passions he pursued but in the countless lives he touched with his warmth, wisdom, and generosity. Predeceased by his dear wife Kay and brother Bruce, Dick leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a community enriched by his presence. His life was a testament to the power of connection, the joy of exploration, and the beauty of a life well-lived. A celebration of Dick's life will be held on July 25, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the First Congregational Church, located at 2401 Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham. Family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by Dick are invited to come together to honor and remember a remarkable man who lived his life with an adventurous spirit and a twinkle in his eye. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Whatcom Chorale or the National Audubon Society, organizations that reflect Dick's enduring passions and commitment to community enrichment.