Craig Alan Porter

Craig Alan Porter, of Cedar Lake, Indiana, lived life fully with a twinkle in his eye. A whole world was contained in that twinkle: joy, generosity, humor, kindness, confidence, love. Known for his infectious laugh and jovial wit, he spent his days seamlessly dancing between profound conversations and good-hearted teasing; his natural warmth and playful nature were universally loved.

Craig adored his family. A caring husband of 41 years to his sweetheart Mary (DeBoer) and devoted father to Jenise (Andy) Kooy, Jennifer (Matthew) Truesdale, Craig Nicholas (Amanda), and Karissa (Fred) Dykstra, he was always happiest when he was surrounded by his crew. He was the cherished grandfather of Cole, Abbigail, Remi, Grant, Jay, Ada, and Freddy, and the dear brother of Dawn (Dave) Beezhold and Cheryl (Kurt) Eenigenburg. He was preceded in death and was the loving son of Jim and Carol Porter and his father-in-law Robert DeBoer. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Ruth DeBoer, and his mother's second husband, Jack Elzinga.

A fond uncle to many nieces and nephews, he was also beloved by numerous wonderful friends from all facets of life. Many childhood memories were etched on the lake with Craig at the helm of a speedboat, hat on backwards while soaking up the summer sun, ensuring delighted screams were regularly coming from those in tow. He knew how to prioritize what mattered most and was the kind of friend one would count themselves incredibly lucky to have found.

Raised with an old-school midwestern work ethic and brought up in the third-generation family business, he ran Porter’s Apparel and Rental for 29 years after his father passed. He took pride in ensuring the 71-year-old business was synonymous with quality and honesty and that his employees were treated like family.

Enjoying the thrill of adventure, Craig loved snow skiing, boating, golfing, biking, and riding his Harley. He liked things “just so” and would tinker endlessly (whistling as he went) until they were precisely as he wanted. He had a passion for cookie dough ice cream, ice, and all his various drinks… but hated being cold.

With a full heart, Craig welcomed others into the joy of life that he himself experienced. A man who had been profoundly shaped by the character and love of Jesus, he served as a deacon and elder at his church and on the board of Cedar Lake Ministries. Naturally and effortlessly generous, he spent his time investing in others with genuine hospitality and had a knack for quietly supporting those who needed a helping hand. He was passionate about the work of All God’s Children International and faithfully supported two women and their families, Elvia (Emeli and Maria) and Juana (Gael and Dariel), for over two decades.

On November 17, 2025, at age 63, Craig peacefully joined his Savior, entering the next phase of his ultimate adventure. With a renewed body and mind, the twinkle in Craig’s eye is now shining with a full vision of his King, and the joy he spread so effortlessly throughout his life has now been made complete.

Visitation with family and friends will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025 from 2:00 -7:00 pm at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN 46311. The Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 10:30am at Smits Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions in memory of Craig may be given to All God’s Children International ( All God's Children Donate Page). If you prefer to send flowers, the family recommends using Cedar Lake Florist. They can be reached at 219-374-7532.