Kathleen Porter

KATHLEEN GILMARTIN PORTER

Cedar Rapids

Kathleen Gilmartin Porter, 59, of Cedar Rapids, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017, surrounded by her family.

She was born June 15, 1958, in Bay Shore, N.Y., to Richard R. Gilmartin and Barbara S. Gilmartin. Kathleen was raised in Titusville, Fla., graduating from Titusville Astronaut High School in 1976. She went on to earn her forensic science degree from the University of Central Florida in 2000. She and her husband worked side by side as successful small business owners.

Kathleen was a fierce, wise, independent, Jesus-loving woman. She was a life-long learner always eager to share her knowledge with loved ones. Kathleen was a source of wisdom and encouragement to anyone who needed help. She never hesitated to lend a helping hand. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family.

Kathleen is survived by her beloved husband, David E. Porter; her four sons, Kyle D. Porter (Lauren), Joshua D. Porter (Kelsey), Michael D. Porter and Austin L. Porter; and her grandchildren, Noah A. Porter and Elijah D. Porter. Kathleen is also survived by her parents, Richard R. Gilmartin and Barbara S. Gilmartin; and her four siblings, Jackie Runions (Jody), Jeanne Mosakowski (Steve), Rick Gilmartin (Helen) and Lori Morgan (Fred). She had seven nephews, five nieces and six great-nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 21, at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories, 4200 First Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. Thursday at the chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in her name to the American Cancer Society.

Online condolences may be left at www.cedarmemorial.com under "obituaries."