John M. Porter

ATHOL- John M. Porter, 69, died Wednesday, June 14, 2023 in the Gardner Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was born on June 10, 1954 in Athol, to Walter J. Porter Jr. and Eileen A. (Battersby) Porter, the eldest of five children.
After graduating from Athol High School in 1972, John purchased five kiddie carnival rides from the Goodwin family of Athol and started Porter’s Amusement Business. For 12 years, John traveled to numerous fairs and carnivals all over New England with his carnival family, which included his brothers, Rich and Jim, and his Dad. John was also employed by the Athol Table Manufacturing company where he worked during the winter months.
John was a loving and caring person. Following the passing of his father, John became the primary caregiver for his mother for many years, who had been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
A loyal New England sports fan, he particularly enjoyed watching Red Sox and Patriots games. He dearly loved his family and truly enjoyed family gatherings, cookouts, birthdays and holidays.
John leaves a sister, Nancy (Porter) Tamasunas and her husband, Peter, of Athol; and a brother, Richard Porter and his wife, Marie, of Athol. He also leaves his sister-in-law Deborrah Porter of Athol; his nieces and nephews, Jason Gerard, Jamie Tamasunas, Amanda (Tamasunas) Keyes, Lisa Porter, Allie Porter and Derek Porter.

John was predeceased by his father (1983), mother (2004), a sister, Donna (Porter) Goss (2004), and a brother James (2022).
There are no calling hours.
Burial will be held at a later date at Silver Lake Cemetery, Athol.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
Guest book online at WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

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