Austin Porter

A typical young man in a typical Michigan town, Austin Porter was like any other typical guy his age who had hopes and dreams for the future. Life for Austin, however, was far from typical. He set his course to the beat of his own and during the time of his all too brief life he enjoyed the love of family, great times with friends and cherished a beautiful little girl he called his own. Although he has left our side far too soon, Austin will remain more than a typical reminder of how precious life can be as he is deeply missed by all.

In the summer of 1990, America enjoyed the hit movie Home Alone and elementary aged students couldn’t keep their eyes off the TV show Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. At this same time, tensions increased overseas after Iraq invaded Kuwait which forced America to prepare for war. Although the Gulf War was not officially launched until the following year, it was most definitely on the hearts of many; however, it was during this time when the hearts of Charles and Anita (Rennaker) Porter were focused on a more joyous event, and on July 20, 1990, they happily welcomed the birth of their son, Austin Travis Porter, into their lives.

Born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Austin was the youngest of three children in the family's Portage home where he grew up with his older sisters, Holly and Amber. He played sports as a young child and definitely enjoyed his share of adventure. The family pets, Max, the golden retriever, and his favorite cat, Twinkles, were always happy to see Austin walk in the door. He went to school in the Vicksburg school district and was a friend to many. In elementary and middle school, Austin played little league and basketball, and in high school played on the tennis team. While still in school, Austin was in the Army Reserves and completed his basic training requirements before graduating from high school in 2009. As he grew older he spent most of his time with friends.

Austin had many interests, but one of them clearly stood out. When it came to martial arts, he excelled above even his own expectations. Something in the art struck a chord with him and he really took off with the sport. He loved Tae Kwon Do, and between participating at Bak’s Tae Kwon Do and Walker's Tae Kwon Do, Austin made his way up the colors of the belts. He was ecstatic when he attained the level of black belt and went on to teach the martial art. Austin recently attended and taught at Chung's Black Belt Academy.

In his free time, Austin was usually found in the company of friends. He loved just hanging out and was always up for a good time and having a little fun. Although quiet by nature, he could prove to be a little testy at times and his feisty personality could get the best of him. He loved going to the casinos, especially Soaring Eagle where he enjoyed playing his hand at blackjack and roulette. Austin simply did his own thing, usually with a few good friends. He was into getting tattoos and by the time he was 21, had acquired eight that clearly spoke of his personality and the things he loved.

When it came to food, Austin liked most foods for a typical guy his age, but he also had quite a diverse palate. Seafood was by far his favorite, particularly shrimp, but when it came to preparing a meal himself, he simply reached for a package of Ramen noodles, which he often bought by the case. Action movies kept his interest and he could often be found on his Xbox playing the modern day warfare game, Call of Duty. From early on he took pride in his appearance. He was one that usually went for brand name items and made sure he was always fashionably dressed. When he had to be professional looking for his job, it was right up his alley.

In 2010, Austin became the proud young father of his beautiful little girl, Gabriella. Since her birth 15 months ago, Austin loved watching her grow and discover new things. He had big plans for the two of them, and always looked forward to holding her in his arms.

On his way to work Thursday, September 15, 2011, Austin was involved in a terrible car and train accident that claimed his life. Sadly, we never realize how our each goodbye is often our last. For Austin's family and friends, it was far too soon. Gone but never to be forgotten, he will be sadly missed and remembered in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Visit with Austin's family and friends, view his life story film and share light refreshments Monday, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Life Story Funeral Home, Portage, 5975 Lovers Lane (344-5600). His funeral will be held Tuesday, September 20, 2011, 1:00 PM at the same location. Austin is survived by his parents, Charles and Anita (Rennaker) Porter; his daughter, Gabriella, and the mother of his daughter, Amela Berberovic; his sisters: Holly (Hamming) and her husband, Kyle Bland, Amber Hamming and her fiancé, Jason Switzer; niece, Adalyn Bland; his grandmother, Delphine Porter, aunts and uncles, Sidney and Debbie Stover, Mark and Susan Hirsch, Rob and Nancy Hofstra, as well as other relatives. Please visit Austin’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can submit a favorite memory or photo, sign his memory book online before coming to the funeral home or make a memorial donation to his family.