Doris (Westfall) Porter Obituary (1924 - 2015)

Doris (Westfall) Porter, 90 years of age, passed away at the Beatrice Community Hospital on Saturday, March 7, 2015. She was born on December 22, 1924 in Byron, Nebraska but spent her childhood years in Nebraska City, Nebraska where she graduated from high school in 1942. She attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and was a member of Alpha Omega Pi sorority. Doris was married to John Porter on August 3, 1947, and they were happily married for 52 years. Doris was an accomplished musician beginning at an early age, and she played music with her siblings in both family and community bands, as well as in high school and the university. She was also a baton twirler. During the Berlin Airlift, Doris worked in the office of the naval Judge Advocate General in Germany. In 1961, after John graduated from medical school, Doris and John moved to Beatrice where they lived for more than 40 years. Doris was a very active community volunteer with the Bargain Box, the medical auxiliary, the Centenary United Methodist Church, and numerous other community organizations and activities. She referred to her occupation as a "Professional Volunteer." Doris also served as a devoted member of the PEO sisterhood for over 50 years. She enjoyed many creative activities including rug-making and stained glass. She also enjoyed playing Bridge. In 2013, Doris moved back to Beatrice and resided in the PEO Home until her passing. Survivors include her daughter, Carol Ann (Daniel) Klaus; her daughter-in-law, Leslie (James) Porter; grandchildren, Christopher (Lindsey Beal) Klaus, Kristin Klaus, Michael Porter, and Matthew Porter; step-grandchildren Becky (Todd) Kruse and David (Jody) Hyde; her sister Betty (Bob) Huston; her sister-in-law, Judy Porter; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her sons, James Wesley and John Radford; her parents; and several siblings. Private family graveside services will be held at a later date. There will be no viewing or visitation as cremation has taken place. A memorial has been established to the Beatrice Community Hospital Foundation or the PEO Home in Beatrice. The memorials can be sent to Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel in Beatrice. These services have been entrusted to the Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel in Beatrice.