Samuel H. Porter

Samuel H. Porter, 90, of Ipava, IL, left the world peacefully at home surrounded by his family on the morning of January 17, 2025. He was born on September 21st, 1934 in Macomb, IL, the first child of Paul & Lela (Howell) Porter. Sam married his sweetheart Linda Tyler on October 14th, 1956 in Ipava, IL, she survives.

He is also survived by his three children; Craig (and Cindy) Porter, Brian (and Lonna) Porter and Brenda (and Dave) Crouse, all of Ipava; seven grandchildren, Katrina (and Brian) Hartsock, Derek (and Nicole) Porter, Levi (and Abby) Porter, Kristen (and Mike) Peters, Laci (and Ryan) Hildebrand, Clay (and Kelsey) Crouse and Kylie (and Seth) Kessler; eight greatgrandchildren, Ava Hartsock, Evan Hartsock, Leah Porter, Mya Porter, Fulton Peters, Rhett Peters, Lainey Peters, and Crew Kessler; one sister-in-law, Nancy Porter; and two brother-in-laws, Norm Miller and Don Keefauver.

Sam is preceded in death by his parents, siblings; Bill Porter, Kathryn Miller, Mary Keefauver; one daughter, Christie Kaye Porter; and one sister-in-law, Janette Porter.

Sam was a proud veteran, serving during the Korean War from 1952 to 1955 in the United States Navy.

The phrase “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life” described Sam perfectly. He looked forward to every day doing what he loved, farming. He was a lifelong row crop farmer, cattleman and inventor in greater Pleasant Township, working daily with his sons and grandsons. Deutz motors and “thinking with your brain, not your back” were a couple of his pleasures that helped him keep his zest for life on the farm.

Sam was a lifelong resident and figure in the Ipava Community. He was heavily involved in the Ipava Presbyterian Church as a 78 year member, Ipava Fire Department, Ipava American Legion Post #17, V.I.T. School Board & Fulton County Farm Bureau.

Not only did he stay busy with work and community involvement, but he also took time to enjoy the small things in life. He and “his flower”, Linda, thoroughly appreciated being around loved ones and having their family nearby. They took great joy in attending their grandchildren’s activities, including livestock shows and sporting events, often attending multiple in one day. They enjoyed traveling with friends, especially with the Ipava dune buggy crew to Branson, Mo. Lastly, Sam had fun playing cards, attending the Fulton County Fair, and being the target of his best buddy Durg’s practical jokes. Sam will be dearly missed by all of those whom he touched.

Services will be held at Ipava Presbyterian Church in Ipava on Thursday, January 23rd, 2025, at 11 AM. Pastor Charles Walden will officiate. A visitation will be held at Ipava Presbyterian Church prior to services on Thursday the 23rd from 9 AM to 11 AM. Interment will be in the Ipava Cemetery. Military Rites will be provided by Ipava American Legion Post #17. Memorials may be made to the Ipava Presbyterian Church or the Ipava Fire Department.