Irwin Porter, 96, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 29, 2026, surrounded by his family and with his loved ones by his side.

Irwin was born January 6, 1930, at the Quinter Hospital, Quinter, KS, to Milford Custer and Myrtle (Crist) Porter.  After graduating from Quinter High School, he pursued his love of agriculture, earning a degree in agriculture from McPherson College.

Education was also an important part of Irwin’s life. He furthered his studies in agriculture at Kansas State University in 1951 and 1952 and earned a degree in education from Fort Hays State University. He began his teaching career at WaKeeney High School, where he taught biology and physics for two years before becoming a guidance counselor at Quinter High School.

Irwin and his wife Betty Ann (Murrey) were united in marriage on December 16, 1951, at the Monitor Church of the Brethren, McPherson, KS. From this union, they had four children, Randy Porter of Quinter, Jana Dee of Warrensburg, MO, Kay Ann of Rosemont, MN, and Denny Porter of Denver, CO, and were blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were actively involved in their church and served as youth sponsors for the Church of the Brethren youth for several years. Irwin also served as a church deacon and church board moderator.

Although education and service were important parts of his life, Irwin’s true passion was farming. In 1964, he moved his family to Emporia for a year while he studied animal science. He enjoyed raising livestock, including pigs and cattle, but it was farming that truly captured his heart.

Irwin was the third generation to carry on his family’s farming operation, which he did for more than 75 years. He lived in the farmhouse that his grandfather built in 1906 for 96 years, making it a place filled with generations of family memories.

Irwin will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his love of farming, his commitment to education, and his service to his church and community. Most importantly, he will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose family was always close to his heart.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Quinter Church of the Brethren or Castle Rock Wellness Center and may be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 South Main, Quinter, America, KS 67752.

He leaves behind a legacy that will continue through the generations who follow him.