Keith “Keeter” Porter

Keith “Keeter” Porter, age 59, of Wilmot, SD, died Thursday, June 9, 2016, at his home.

Keeter will be cremated and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. In keeping with Keeter’s wishes, his obituary is written in first person, a letter from him to his family and friends.

I was born on April 22, 1957, in Milbank, SD, to Chuck and Elaine Porter. I had three brothers, Rich, Marty, and Burt, and one sister, Carrie. I grew up primarily in Milbank, where I graduated from high school, but also lived in Groton and Wilmot. After high school I went to Vo Tech in Canby, MN for welding and sheet metal. I worked in Dawson, MN, Colorado, and Oklahoma before coming back to Corona and starting a new adventure of farming with my uncle, Spindy.

I lived on a farm north of Corona, as well as in town. I loved living in Corona and felt that it was a great place to live where I was surrounded by people who were very good to me. While in Corona, I was privileged to serve on the city council. Corona also meant playing softball, drinking beer, and creating wonderful friendships that lasted a lifetime.

When my parents and brothers moved back to the area, I relocated to a farm west of Wilmot. After moving to Wilmot my life was truly fulfilled. I became a father to my daughter, Terra, and a husband to my best friend and love of my life, Jewel. Jewel, Terra, and I greatly enjoyed working to improve the farm and loved making memories at the Porter family cabin at SoDak.

I suffered from ALS for many years and although a debilitating disease, I tried to remain positive and was able to find value in the quiet time it gave me for thought. I tried to look at the bright side of things and felt fortunate for the many experiences I was able to have. ALS is hardest on the caregiver and I was blessed to have the best in Jewel. I was so fortunate to spend my last days at home with my family. My time came to an end on June 9, 2016. I was 59 years old.

I am survived by my wife, Jewel and daughter, Terra of Wilmot, SD; mother, Elaine of Wilmot, SD; brothers and sister and their families; uncle, Spindy of Corona, SD; and aunt, Merilys of Arizona. I love you all. BoJo, we had a pretty good run so thanks and take care. To everyone at Stan’s over the years, thanks for the memories. I was preceded in death by my father.

In lieu of flowers, I am requesting memorials be given to the Wilmot Fire Department or the Corona Fire Department.