David E. Porter, 67, of Geneva, NY and Palm Bay, FL, died Feb. 3 after a devastating diagnosis of untreatable cancer.

The son of Elmer and Mary DeBuyser Porter, he was raised in Caywood, NY with his twin sister, Dawn and older sister, Dianne. He graduated from South Seneca High School, where he had the lead in musicals, played football and tennis, played trombone and was the drum major in the marching band.

Dave graduated from Ithaca College, where he studied recreation and played rugby. Professionally, he worked as the recreation supervisor at several maximum security 

NYS prisons, including Auburn, Elmira and Oneida. He was a coach and referee in swimming and soccer and delighted in attending all of his children’s sporting events and extracurricular activities.

After he retired, he learned pickleball and started playing daily – and very competitively - at many venues. Dave avidly followed his favorite teams, the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Orioles, his whole life, despite some disappointing seasons.

A quick wit with a deadpan sense of humor, he entertained family and friends with his repartee. Dave was also known for his unmistakable belly laughs, his uncanny two-note whistle, his obsession with the History Channel and being the self-appointed mixologist at all gatherings.

His biggest joy was spending time with his beloved family, which included his adoring wife, Sue Weibezahl Porter, amazing children, David (Natalie) Porter of Mooresville, NC and Kaile (Justin) Reed, of Elmira, NY, grandchildren, Hudson and Kinsleigh Reed, and devoted pets, Mollie, Luna and Rosie.

He is also survived by his sisters, Dawn and Dianne, nephew, Seth (Amanda) Moser, great-niece, Clover, and many friends, neighbors and co-workers, who enriched his life for decades.

Dave was predeceased by his parents, his uncle and aunt, Clayton and Warda Porter, his brother-in-law, David Moser, and cousin Charles Porter.

A Celebration of Life will be held this summer in the Finger Lakes, his old stomping grounds. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Hospice.

Dave’s family so appreciates the outpouring of love and support from all those whose lives he touched.