Justin Edward Porteous
-1973-2016-

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Justin Edward Porteous was born at the old General Hospital in Eureka, CA on December 31, 1973. He was taken from us suddenly on July 2, 2016 at the age of 42. He was the finest son that any parents could hope to have. Justin had fond memories of his years at Blue Lake Elementary School from kindergarten through eighth grade and still considered many of those classmates to be his friends. He graduated from Arcata High in 1992 and joined the Army. Later he earned a degree in Environmental Engineering at HSU. Justin was a dedicated employee for 16 years and loved his work at Mercer Fraser Company, especially during the busy season. He drove thousands of miles and spent many hours in his truck going from one project to another, which suited his introverted personality. He worked with various permitting and regulating agencies which sometimes brought frustration because often one agency’s regulations are in contrast to another’s. He was never known to take a sick day. Justin was an honest, hardworking, loving and generous man who was always willing to lend a helping hand without expecting anything in return. He had a dry sense of humor and was never without a pen in his shirt pocket.

Justin was well read on a broad range of subjects and enjoyed sharing and discussing his literary pursuits with his dad. This included, science, engineering, history, politics, current events and occasionally science fiction. In recent years he took an interest in cooking and often spent Sunday afternoons trying out new recipes that he would have for lunch and dinner the following week. After a visit, he rarely left without a hug for his mom. Justin was a do it yourselfer and took pleasure in maintaining his home, truck and motorcycle.

Justin is survived by his parents Edward and Rebecca and his sister and best friend Julie Porteous. He was the proud uncle of Cameron Leach and just the week before his death, they enjoyed an 80 mile jet boat cruise together on the Rogue River. He leaves behind his Aunts Sylvia (Jim) Wranosky of Rancho Cucamonga, CA; Ellen Hook of Golden, CO; Barbara Graham of Arcata; Uncles Marvin (Terri) and Myron (Lisa) Savage of Eureka and Great Uncle Roy Savage of Arcata. He also leaves behind many cousins, other extended family members and friends.

Justin was predeceased by his grandparents Edward and Alvina Porteous of Gualala, CA and Glen and Martha Savage of Eureka. Also by his uncle Wayne Savage of Eureka. The family would like to thank Arcata Police and Fire, Mad River Ambulance, the doctors and staff at Mad River Hospital Emergency Services for their efforts to save our son’s life. There will be a memorial service at the Ingomar on Saturday July 9th with social hour beginning at noon and a buffet luncheon will be served at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.

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The family of Justin Edward Porteous would like to thank everyone who offered condolences and support by sending cards and letters, making donations to various organizations, visiting, traveling to attend the memorial, preparing and delivering meals, sending flowers and being there for us. A special thank you to Mercer Fraser Company and Justin Zabel for everything you have done during this difficult time. We are truly touched by all of the support that has been shown to us.

Sincerely,

The Porteous Family, Edward, Rebecca, Julie and Cameron.

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The obituary above was submitted by Justin’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.