Bruce Porter

Bruce Porter, left this world peacefully on March 30, 2026 shortly after his 80th birthday. He was born on March 27, 1946, in Modesto, California, to Josephine and Paul Porter, and was raised in Waterford. His father passed away when Bruce was a young boy, and his mother later married Leroy Woody, who became a devoted stepfather and a guiding influence in Bruce’s life. From a young age, Bruce excelled in athletics. He was a standout running back at Oakdale High School and a highly decorated track and field athlete. Specializing in the 100-yard dash, he once held the United States National Junior Olympics record in the 4x100 meter relay for his age group. Bruce served proudly and with distinction in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged as a Specialist Fifth Class (SP5) in 1973. He married Dolores Sisson, with whom he had three children: Bruce Jr., Yvonne and Paul. He went on to build a long and successful career at Foster Poultry Farms, where he retired as Vice President after dedicating 32 years of service to the company in many capacities. In 1984, Bruce married his eternal love Marge Beatty Soderquist, affectionately known as “Miss Margie.” Through their marriage, Bruce gained three stepchildren: Sheri LaCross, Teresa Benedict, and Rick Soderquist, creating a loving blended family. Bruce was an avid golfer and a member of Turlock Golf and Country Club. He traveled the world playing the game he loved and collected logo golf balls from each course he played. At last count, he had played over 270 courses worldwide. Bruce’s siblings included Paula Porter, Marlene Woody and Stanton Woody. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Porter and Josephine and Leroy Woody; his sister, Paula Sexton; his son, Bruce Porter Jr.; and his loving wife of 38 years, Marge. He is survived by his two children Yvonne (Greg) Breasher and Paul (Kadi) Porter; and Marge’s three children Sheri (Randy) LaCross, Teresa Benedict and Rick Soderquist. He is also survived by, and was the proudest of grandfathers to, Ashley Aguiniga, Travis LaCross, Bergen Benedict, Claire Porter, Braden Benedict, Paul Porter, Kameron Porter, and Paxton Porter, and the adoring great-grandfather of Rhylie Fry. Bruce also shared a deep love for his pets—his dogs Abby and Penny, and his cat Sadie—who were faithful companions throughout his life. Bruce’s legacy is one of perseverance, achievement, professional dedication, and unwavering devotion to his family, who loved him dearly in return. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Atul Verma at Global Hospice & Palliative Care, and Bryan Van Vliet at River View Post Acute for their excellent care during Bruce’s final months. Services will be held at Turlock Memorial Park and Funeral Home at 10:00 AM on Monday, April 20, with a small family-only graveside service to follow. In lieu of gifts, the family asks that donations be made to New Life Christian Center (Turlock) or Global Hospice & Palliative Care (Modesto).

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Bruce Porter

March 27, 1946 - March 30, 2026