Allen M. Porter

Allen M. Porter, 98, of Dayton, Iowa, passed away at his home on Thursday, July 28, 2016, as the result of a house fire.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m., Monday, August 1, 2016, at the United Methodist Church in Dayton. Pastor Kay. Christie will officiate. Burial will be in the Dayton Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, from 8:30 a.m. until the time of service at the United Methodist Church. For online obituaries & condolences visit: www.carsonstappfuneralhome.com

Allen Morris Porter was born on April 25, 1918, In Fort Dodge, Iowa, the son of George and Cleo (Morris) Porter. He graduated from Dayton High School in 1936, and still holds the record for high hurdles. Following his education Allen worked with his father on the family farm. In 1946 he left Dayton and worked on ranches in New Mexico and Texas. In 1950, Allen bought his own ranch in Arkansas, and after 10 years returned to Dayton in 1960 to farm again. During his lifetime he was a farrier for 26 years.

In 1937 Allen along with a couple friends, Duane Vegors and Vern Danielson, started what has turned out to be a yearly event, The Dayton Championship Rodeo on Labor Day weekend. It began on the Porter Farm with a few rope tricks. In 1942 it moved to the golf course, by 1955 the event grew and was moved to its permanent location.

Allen loved spending many weekends out at Chucks Cowboy Park with family and friends riding, camping and teaching the grandkids, and great grandkids his cowboy ways, many times he'd laugh and shake his head, but oh the memories that were made.

In 1942 Allen was married to Velda, the marriage ended due to health reasons.

In 1958 Allen was married to Shirley Williams, they later divorced. To this union his son Charles Allen Porter was born, Chuck was Allen's pride and joy. Tragically he lost him in 1981 in an auto accident.

On June 29, 1971 Allen married Esther Jones, to this union he gained many stepchildren, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great great grandchildren.

For several years Allen and Esther traveled with a group of friends to the Black Hills of South Dakota, and enjoyed many trail rides while there.

In 1981 Allen and Esther sold their Porter Rabbitry business, retired, and started spending winters in Williamsburg, New Mexico. They spent 21 winters there and enjoyed riding, ranching and meeting old and new friends. He served for many years on the Dayton Rodeo and Celebration Committee and was a longtime member of the Dayton Wranglers Club. Allen spent many hours each year getting ready for the rodeo celebration.

Allen wanted special recognition to those that have helped him due to failing health the past few years: granddaughter, Annette Kahler, cousin, John Porter, and friends Darrell Kinsey and Duan Boker.

Survivors include one brother Dwaine "Pete" (Gidget) Porter of Tomahawk, Wisconsin; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Chuck on May 15, 1981, wife, Esther Porter on October 14, 2008, one brother, Tom Porter, one sister June Nesler, and a very special son in law, Dennis Tjelle.

In honor of Allen's lifestyle, western attire is welcomed at his service!