Kenneth Paul Porter

Saturday, July 26, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

St. John United Church of Christ, Breese

Saturday, July 26, 2025

12:00 p.m.

St. John United Church of Christ, Breese

Kenneth Paul Porter, age 76, of Breese, passed away Thursday, July 10, 2025, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 16, 1948, to the late parents William “Bill” and Margaret (nee Denton) Porter in Elwood, Indiana. He was the older brother to Earl (Linda) Porter, husband to Carolyn (nee Wintermann) Porter, father to Carol (Steve) Hilmes, Dorothy (Allan) Elling, Paul (Arthurina) Porter, and the late Henry “Hank” Porter, grandfather to Heather (Clint) Uselton, John Hilmes, Samantha Elling, and Talice Porter, and great-grandfather to Brooklyn (Brennan) Lotz, Harrison Uselton, and Easton Uselton.

Kenneth, known to many as “Kenny” or “Ken,” was a devoted family man who worked hard throughout his life to care and provide for his family. As a young man growing up in Alexandria, Indiana, he turned his life towards God and strove to emulate the teachings of Jesus Christ. Being a member of the church was something he treasured, gratefully participating in church life as fully as he could. His lifelong commitment to his faith was ever-present, fulfilling him and giving him strength.

On April 6,1974 he married his wife, Carolyn, in a ceremony at St. John’s United Church of Christ in Breese, Illinois. For over 51 years, Kenny and Carolyn were constant companions, rarely going anywhere without the other, moving from Indiana to Illinois and having four children along the way. They endured tough times and celebrated the good times; together, building a life as husband and wife and creating a loving bond that will last forever.

As a father, Kenneth endeavored to teach his children to be moral, to appreciate the benefits of hard work, and to be a helping hand to those in need. The golden rule, to treat others as you would want to be treated, was a guiding principle that he demonstrated time and time again. He was friendly, kind, warm-hearted, helpful, curious, good-humored, supportive, and approached his role as a father with bright-eyed eagerness. His children loved him dearly and will continue to remember his example and strive to live up to it.

Kenneth left this life with a heart and mind prepared for the next, surrounded by his family who lovingly cared for him throughout his final days. Kenneth’s display of humbleness throughout his life, putting others before himself, his dedication to service and charity, and his devotion to his family and God is the rich legacy that his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will always remember with pride and loving admiration.

Kenneth was a dedicated member of St. John United Church of Christ in Breese, where he actively served on the church board and participated in the Men’s Group. He was deeply committed to youth and community service, serving as a Scout Leader for Breese Troop 225 and teaching Sunday School. Kenneth was also a proud member of the Machinist Union and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Lodge 660. In addition, he was a former member of the Breese Optimist Club, reflecting his lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and community involvement.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at St. John United Church of Christ in Breese with Rev. Beverly Wilkes-Null officiating.

Visitation will be Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at St. John United Church of Christ in Breese.

In lieu of flowers, plants, and other gifts, memorials may be made to the wishes of the family (checks payable to Carol Hilmes) and will be received at the visitation or by mail, Moss Funeral Home, 535 N 5^th St. Breese, IL 62230, who is serving the family.