Obituary of Walter S. Porter

NORTH RIVER, NY:  Walter “Wally” Scott Porter, went home with our Lord and Savior on Monday, October 27, 2025 at home in North River surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with colon cancer metastasized to his lungs.

Wally was born on May 16, 1959, in Glens Falls, NY, the son of the late Joseph F. Porter and Margaret L. Porter. He grew up in Wilton and graduated from South Glens Falls High School.

One of Wally’s favorite childhood memories was working at his Uncle Donald’s vegetable stand and helping in the “big garden.” Early in life his parents instilled a great work ethic. Throughout high school, he held several jobs and went on to work in Boston at Northeastern University that inspired him to own his own restaurant, opening Wally’s Steak and Seafood in North Creek, NY.

In addition to the hospitality industry, Wally held several jobs that led to property management. He started his own business, Porter Property Services, in the Garnet Hill community. His goal of helping people has certainly been achieved with this business.

Wally always loved an adventure, especially his oldest son, Joe’s, wedding in Ireland! He was an avid football fan following Tom Brady all the way to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was always up for a good concert, and loved Lynard Skynyrd, Chris Stapleton, Richie Blackmore, and Deep Purple! Many didn’t know it, but Wally was also a poet and singer songwriter. His love of music ran deep. Just like his love of history. Most recently he enjoyed the outdoor immersive movie experience of “The Last of the Mohican’s!”  Wally’s faith with God was solid, and he loved his Christian Hill Bible Church family in North River.

Everyone who met Wally saw his kind, gentle spirit shining through his beautiful blue eyes and bright smile. His sense of humor always made others feel comfortable. Closest to Wally’s heart was his love of family. He was a beloved Papa to his seven grandchildren and loved spending time with them. His passion was around hunting. He was proud to serve as President of the Chippewa Hunting Club and treasured time outdoors in nature with his club members that encompassed family and close friends. He felt strong about passing the hunting tradition to his sons and grandchildren. He knew the mountain ranges of Bakers Mills like the back of his hand.

Wally is survived by his fiancé, Michelle Blair, 3 sons and 2 daughters: Joseph Porter and his wife, Ryan, of Queensbury; Nicholas Porter and his partner, Logan Hayes, of Johnsburg; Valeri Collier and her husband, Andrew, of Warrensburg; Samuel Porter, and Sadie Porter of North River. He is also survived by his 7.5 grandchildren, Addyson Porter and Owen Porter of Queensbury; Carleigh Hayes, Caida Ovitt, Quinn Porter and Calan Porter of Johnsburg; and Arlo Collier and Baby Collier of Warrensburg.

He is also survived by 3 sisters and 3 brothers: Louise and her husband, James Warrington, of Gansevoort; Brenda Albertson of Gansevoort and her partner, Frank Ruiz; Stewart and his wife, Colleen, of North River; Jeffery of Port Layden, Rodney and his wife, Janis, of Glens Falls; and Melanie and her husband, Keith Lorenzen, of Conway, SC. He is also survived by an aunt, many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Margaret Porter, brother-in-law, Vance Albertson and several aunts, and uncles and his beloved cousin Tina DeMarsh.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025 from 1pm - 5pm at the Ski Bowl, North Creek. 

Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online condolences and guest book.