Charles Walter Porter (Charlie)
“The milkman has retired
to the big dairy in the sky”
Born April 6, 1921 at the Chemainus Hospital, passed away on January 1, 2012, at his Saltair home where he spent his entire life, with his family at his side.
He was predeceased by his parents Walter (1964) and Lillian (1968), Sister Violet (2009) and Twin Brother Robert (2004).
He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Anne, sister Kathleen Porter, son Donald (Karen) Porter, daughter Sheila (Ken) Percival, and Grandchildren, Suzanne (Gary) Knopp, Lori (Sandy) Pickard, Ian (Brianne) Porter, Shannon (Neil) Stevens, Travis (Kirsten) Waller and 10 great-grandchildren, and his faithful companion Missy.
Charlie’s father Walter came to Canada as a two year old when his grandfather and grandmother immigrated to the original 160 acre home site in Saltair. Charlie took over the operation of the family farm upon the death of his father and continued it’s development and growth. In more recent years the farm became a joint venture with Don and Karen and became known as Porter’s Dairy. The family was presented “The Century Farm and Ranch Award” in April 1995 by the BC Ministry of Agriculture. Although Charlie retired from the active operation of the farm in his late 60‘s, he was never far away from the action with daily visits to ensure that everything was operating to his satisfaction.
Charlie the “Milkman” began to bottle and provide home delivery of milk and cream to residents of the Chemainus area in 1938. This continued unabated until 1975 when British Columbia prohibited the delivery of raw milk products in British Columbia.
He was life member of the Chemainus Rod & Gun Club and enjoyed his annual trips to Alberta for goose and pheasant hunting. He also became an avid fisherman in his retirement years and spent many hours of fishing on the west coast of Vancouver Island with his son-in-law.
Special thanks to Sarah Kis-Toth, Anne Williams, Dr. Manny Fritsch and the nurses from We Care.
Memorial Service was held at St. Michaels & All Angels Anglican Church, 2858 Mill Street, Chemainus, BC on Saturday, January 7, 2012 at 2:00 o’clock pm.
In lieu of flowers a donation to the charity of your choice may be made.
Telford’s of Ladysmith
250-245-5553