Ernest F. "Frank" Porter II

Ernest F. “Frank” Porter II, age 89, of Cawker City, Kansas, passed away April 14, 2026, in Downs, Kansas.

Frank was born March 13, 1937, the only son of Ernest F. Porter and Marjorie (Vint) Porter. He was raised in rural Glen Elder, Kansas, where he learned early the value of hard work and showing up for others—traits he carried with him his entire life.

Frank lived a life dedicated to service. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1959. During his time in the Navy he learned the art of welding.

After serving in the Navy, he became a member of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, working for International Harvester and in the shipyards and factories on the West Coast before returning to Kansas in 1982.

He then went on to become the welding instructor at Beloit Area Vocational Technical College from 1982 to 2002, where he trained and mentored generations of students. He didn’t just teach a trade—he taught people to do things right and take pride in their work.

Frank continued his service to others through Alcoholics Anonymous, using his 47 years of recovery to sponsor and support countless individuals on their own journeys.

Frank was a gentle and caring man known for his sharp wit, his stubborn streak, and a personality that filled a room. He had a way of telling it like it was, making people laugh when they needed it most, and leaving an impression you didn’t forget.

Frank is survived by his wife, Carol Porter of Cawker City, KS; his children: Ernest F. "Ernie" Porter III (Michelle) of Manhattan, KS; Lacy Porter of Glen Elder, KS; Cara Hall of Ellsworth, KS; Holly Osborne of Derby, KS; John Luft of Carnation, WA; and Allen Luft of Monroe, WA. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest F. Porter and Marjorie Porter; his sisters, Audrey (Porter) Neifert, Dorothy Sue Porter, and Gwen Porter; his son, Steve Porter; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at Prairie Grove Cemetery on April 22, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Following the graveside service, a reception will be held at the Cawker City Methodist Church.

The family invites all who knew Frank to come honor and celebrate a life well lived. In true Frank fashion, come with stories to share and a smile to match. Memorials may be given to the Cawker City Methodist Church or the Cawker City Senior Center.