Thomas C. Porter

Thomas C. Porter died peacefully at home on January 26, 2025, as the sun set, surrounded by his family after a 16-year dance with prostate cancer. For those lucky enough to know Tom, his infectious energy, sharp wit, and deep sensitivity will be greatly missed.

Born October 2, 1948, in Des Moines, IA, to Dr. Robert J. Porter and Jean Beyer Porter, Tom had an idyllic childhood. Growing up with 4 siblings and a slew of neighborhood friends, his days were filled with ice skating, kickball, and mischief on Forestdale Drive. He spent his summers at Des Moines Golf & Country Club swimming and playing tennis and golf. The family also made frequent trips to their cottage in Spirit Lake, enduring 2-hour long dinners at Crandall’s Lodge with Grandma Lila. 

At the age of 13, Tom’s world was shattered by the tragic death of his mother. The loss of this centering force within the family was forever present.

After graduating from Roosevelt High School and surviving a one-year stint at Wentworth Military Academy (he was “not invited back”), Tom pursued a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Iowa. Upon graduation, he resigned as head bartender at The Airliner to drive a tanker truck for Barton Solvents. His life flashed before him while sliding down an ice-covered road, hauling highly combustible chemicals. He promptly turned in his keys and searched for a less explosive job in advertising.

Finding work as director of marketing for Brenton Bank, Tom earned an MBA from Drake University, and in 1981 founded the advertising agency, Thomas C. Porter & Associates. As he would later boast in a self-promoting flier, “Tom Lied…” he had no associates. His first client was Homesteaders Life Company and over 22 years he fostered many associates servicing a variety of clients and donating resources to promote local charities. He sold the company in 2003. In 2005, his career came full circle serving as Vice President of Marketing at Homesteaders Life Company for 3 years before retiring and writing the book, “All I Need to Know About Business I Learned from a Duck – Business Lessons from Nature.” 

When Tom wasn’t hard at work or cheering on his beloved Iowa Hawkeyes, he enjoyed running, bowling, tennis, fishing, telling tall tales, communicating with animals, and eating delicious bacon (RIP - Eternal Bacon Godfather of the Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival). An entertainer at heart, he liked to play the guitar, sing, and dance. He would kick off “Party Night” at the family’s Spirit Lake cottage with songs by Jim Croce, Eric Clapton, Willie Nelson, and The Eagles. There might be an occasional “yeehaw!” to punctuate a song or encourage the dancers. These raucous nights inspired musical passions in generations to follow.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 26 years, Susan Crowell Porter and their precious Gracie Dog. They enjoyed traveling, wintering in Clearwater Beach and spending time with close family and friends. His three sons Brandon, Marshall (Emily), Logan (Katie), and 8 grandchildren inspired him to stay active and engaged in the everchanging world around him. He is also survived by his siblings Bob (Karen) Porter, Jean (Gene) Olson, and Lila (Jim) Stafford. Tom is predeceased by his sister Mary (Bob) Yocum, his parents, his brindle Great Dane Zeus, and Yellow Lab Jake. His in-laws, Larry Crowell (Diane Steenhoek), Mark Crowell (Lisa Crowell), and their children were always close to his heart.

A celebration of life will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, May 9th, at the Walnut Woods Lodge in Walnut Woods State Park. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa at https://www.arl-iowa.org/.