Gertrude Joan Porter, known by all who knew and loved her for her deep conviction to her faith, her keen and tireless wit, and the courage with which she confronted a series of illnesses that dominated too many of her final days; passed peacefully on September 30^{th, in the company of her loving family. The conviction with which she lived what she believed gives an unflinching belief to those she leaves behind; a belief that she is at last in the full and loving care of her Savior.}

She is survived by her 8 loving children: Colleen Buzenski (Ernie Buzenski), Thomas Porter (Becky), Catherine Mitchel (Aaron), Kevin Porter (Monica Lidral), Karen Buzenski (John), Eileen Buzenski (Bob), Daniel Porter (Barb), Timothy Porter (Donna); as well as 25 beloved grandchildren; and 12 adorable great-grandchildren.

It will not be the way she passed that we will remember, rather, the way she lived. The turn of a phrase that could turn your day; the penchant for perspective wrapped in humor; “I know the good Lord won’t give me what I can’t handle, I just wish he wouldn’t trust me so much“; the resolve that always found a way. She shepherded her family through all manner of difficult times, from economic uncertainty, to illness, to death and through the moral challenges of a changing world. Through it all there was the certainty of a home filled with music, brightened by laughter, lit by love and where guests were always welcomed.

A viewing will be held in the east vestibule of Sacred Heart Catholic Church (260 Broad Street Wadsworth, OH) on Tuesday October 4th from 10am -11:30am; followed by Mass of Resurrection at 11:30 a.m. Interment at Woodlawn Cemetery follows Mass and guests are welcomed back in the church hall for a reception following the internment. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the The legion of Mary-Sacred Heart Catholic Church.