John "Jack" R. Porter

John "Jack" Porter, age 70, of Independence Township, was received into the loving arms of his Heavenly Father on March 28, 2026, at UPMC Mercy Hospital, with his loving family by his side.

He was born on February 16, 1956, in Pittsburgh, to the late John R. Porter and Joan Ekas.

Jack was a 1974 graduate of Moon High School, a 1976 graduate of Robert Morris University, and a 1977 graduate of the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. He faithfully served his community as a licensed funeral director for over 50 years, including 23 years at Darroch Funeral Home and 29 years at the John Syka Funeral Home.

He is survived by his loving son, John “J.J.” Porter (Gabriella Muoio), his aunt and uncle, Ed and Marie Kohar of Baden; his stepson, Brian (Kathy) Hans of Georgetown; and his dear friends, Tony Blum, Carolyn Dunne, Valerie Tilson, and Michelle Pietrzak. He was also loved and remembered by the Sisters of Saint Joseph, along with numerous cousins and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife Karen Porter and his daughter Rochelle Porter. Jack had a special love for his pets: Troy, Crosby, Batman, Junior, and Betty Joe, who were truly part of his family.

Friends will be received on Wednesday from 2–4 and 6–8 PM in the John Syka Funeral Home, 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge. Family and friends will meet Thursday in the Good Samaritan Catholic Church- St. Luke the Evangelist Parish for a Funeral Service at 1:30 P.M. with Father Joe Carr officiating.  Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses at UPMC Mercy Hospital and his devoted traveling nurse Lea of Concordia Visiting Nurses. Finally, to all who provided care, comfort, and support during Jacks final journey. 

In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to the Ryan Shazier Fund, P.O. Box 5258, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 www.ryanshazierfund.org 

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