Gladstone, MI
Jack H. Porath, of Gladstone, passed away peacefully Monday afternoon, March 16, 2015, at Marquette General Hospital, in Marquette, at the remarkable age of 94 years.
Jack was born August 23, 1920, in Escanaba, the son of Gustaf and Grace (Lasway) Porath. He was raised in Hyde and attended the New Hall School. Jack left school at a young age, as many youngsters did during those years, and went to work on various local farms throughout the area. In June of 1942, Jack received his draft notice to report for training in the United States Army. This unfortunate notice came just two days after he was scheduled to be united in marriage. Jack was joined in marriage to the former Marcella Chouinard and together the couple, eventually, gave birth to six children. Jack served in the United States Army, during WWII, in the South Pacific Theatre, as a heavy truck driver. During his enlistment, he received medals of accomodation which included the Good Conduct Medal and three bronze stars. He was honorably discharged at Camp McCoy, WI in December of 1945 following three in a half years of dedicated service. Following his discharge, Jack returned home to Schaeffer. His wife Marcella preceded him in death. On June 11, 1966, Jack was united in marriage to Rita Lauzon-Valiquette and together the couple made their home and raised their family of twelve in Schaeffer and Pine Ridge. Jack was employed for many years as a mechanic/machinist at Northern Motor Rebuilders. During the nights and weekends, he worked as a bartender at Potvin
Katherine s Beatty
Life is about memories and I have so many of fishing trips. The Whole Kenai Pennisula / Kenai River 150 miles long/ Homer/ Steward. We fished for everything and had so many stories to be told on size and amount. And I am sure he was met on the other side with so many people for him…..and I am sure they had some sweet rolls waiting for him. He had the sweetest tooth I have ever know. Rest in peace and tell them stories of the fish……:)
Geraldine-Nicholson-Schwark - Escanaba, MI
Sorry for your loss…..I’ve known Jack for over 55+yrs. His brother Bill was married to my Sister Lorraine. We spent many summers down by the river when the Porath Families, Bill & Lorraine, Junie & EllaMae & Jack & Marcella, & Fred & Rose Pirlot wanted to have a picnic with baseball and swimming. It was so much fun with a lot of good Memories. I will always remember that……Thank You!!
Jean Johnson - Gladstone, MI
I was saddened to read of Jack’s passing. He was a wonderful neighbor of mine in Gladstone. I know he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Sorry, I can’t attend his service as I am in Florida.
Alan, Rita, Layla, Brooke, Reid, and Sawyer Huffman - Wittenberg, WI
We love you Papa. We were sad to lose you, but thankful you are in a better place now. Miss you already. Thank you for the great memories and being such a wonderful Papa and Great grandpa!
LA - NONE, 0
Thanks for your service to our country. RIP.
Barbara A Nelson - Escanaba, MI
My sympathy and prayers to Rita and family. Couldn’t attend either the wake or service.