Gerald Charles Portner

Gerald “Jerry” Charles Portner, 75, of Longview died October 12, surrounded by family.

Jerry was born July 14, 1947, in White Salmon, Washington to Charles Portner and Mary Louise (Thurston) Portner Riley Thompson. Jerry grew up in White Salmon, Long Beach, and Longview/Kelso. Jerry attended Kelso High School. He married Donna Lynn Portner on April 16, 1981. They were married 25 years.

Jerry retired from the construction industry where he was a partner in Ostrander Rock & Construction, and was also a partner in Kona Precision Hearing in Longview. Over the course of his career he also worked in law enforcement, logging, welding, and long-haul trucking.

Jerry served in the U.S. Navy and was an Airman on the USS Saratoga CV-60. He enjoyed traveling, golfing, fishing, motorcycles, racing, classic film, and had a true collector’s spirit.

He is survived by his children, Sonny Portner, Christopher Portner, and Cory Portner; two sisters, Toni Swogger and Shannon Larsen; two brothers, Robert Portner and Russell Portner; three grandchildren Ashley Portner, Ryan Portner, and Alannah Portner; three great-grandchildren with one on the way; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife and soul mate, Donna Lynn Portner; brother, former state Rep. Mike Riley; son, Anthony Portner; and best friends Rama Mitchell and Mike Wines.

Inurnment will be at Longview Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to Community Home Health and Hospice by visiting https://www.chhh.org/.