Obituary of Arthur Woodbury Porter

New Sharon — Arthur W. Porter Jr., 89, of New Sharon, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2015, at the Hospice House in Auburn, with family members at his side, after a period of declining health. Known to many as "Junior" he was the 11th and youngest son of Arthur Sr. and Minnie (Webber) Porter born in New Sharon on April 5, 1926. In 1941 at the age of 15, living in Farmington Falls, he met the love of his life, Virginia "Ginnie" Ashley ("Ginger" to him) and on Feb. 7, 1948, they were married, sharing a beautiful 65 years together before her passing in November 2013. For many years Junior was involved in the business of lumbering, obtaining a special license from the State of Maine at the age of 10 to operate a pulp truck. In 1944 at the age of 18, he enlisted in the United States Army, assigned to the 162nd Infantry Regiment, 41st Division, also known as The Fighting Jungleers, he was stationed in the Philippines and Japan. Junior was honorably discharged in May 1946 having been decorated with the Pacific Theater Campaign Ribbon, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, the Bronze Star and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. Upon his return to Farmington Falls, he worked for a time at the Wilton Woolen Mill and Foster's before returning to the business of lumbering which he continued to do for most of his life. He and Virginia remained in the Farmington Falls/New Sharon area raising their family there. Arthur is survived by four sons: Jeffrey (Jay) and wife Beverly of Farmington Falls, Robert (Bob) and wife Robin, Lawrence (Larry) and Michael (Mike) and wife Doris all of New Sharon; one daughter, Judith (Judy) Brackett and husband Bryan of Hope, and daughter-in-law, Diane of New Sharon. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Virginia and eldest son Daniel. At his request there will be no calling hours, however a graveside memorial service honoring Arthur and Virginia, will be announced at a later date. Arrangements under the direction of Direct Cremations of Maine, Belfast, ME. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Franklin County Animal Shelter, 550 Industry Road, Farmington, ME 04938.