Ann Porter

Ann Christine Porter, 69, of Fergus Falls, MN, tragically passed away in a motor vehicle collision on May 25, 2024, in Morris County, Kansas, while visiting Council Grove for an annual family reunion.

Ann was born on November 10, 1954, to loving parents Gene and Dorothy (Long) Porter in Fergus Falls, MN. Throughout life, she remained close with her tight-knit siblings, Rex, Mary, and Paul. She approached life with curiosity, an open heart, and a quest for knowledge.

After graduating from Fergus Falls High School in 1973, Ann went on to study at the Fergus Falls Community College before completing her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Social Studies at the University of Minnesota. While at the U of M, she worked in Student Records and discovered her love for assisting students. Later she achieved her Master's of Management while balancing the demands of work, marriage, and raising her two young daughters, Nicole and Alexis.

Ann dedicated nearly 40 years to positively influencing countless students at MState (Fergus Falls Community College), serving in roles such as Registrar, Academic Dean, and Advisor. She cherished her work, where she could connect with students and was a tireless advocate. Ann was a beacon of encouragement to all-whether you were a student, colleague, friend, or family member. Her kindness and limitless support were unmatched; she was truly everyone's greatest champion.

Like her parents, Ann was deeply passionate and generous, actively supporting various local organizations such as the YMCA, American Association of University Women (AAUW), Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO), Fergus Falls Center for the Arts, Fergus Falls Concert Association, and more. She was also involved in her community through the Federated Church, book clubs, facilitating Beginning Experience, and serving as a local election judge.

Ann's zest for life was evident in her adventurous spirit. She enjoyed traveling, bicycling across Canada with her mother and sister, scuba diving with her daughters, the rush of roller coasters, and hot air balloon rides. As a nature enthusiast with an affinity for visors, she found joy in camping, canoeing, skiing, hiking, and gardening.

Summers on Swan Lake held a special place in Ann's heart, where she cherished moments with family, surrounded by laughter and the tranquility of nature. As "Nana Ann," she embodied pride and joy in every moment shared with her grandchildren. Above all, Ann's greatest love was her family.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Gene and Dorothy, and infant daughter, Christine. She is survived by her two children, Nicole (Michael) Welle and Alexis (Daniel) Johnson; four grandchildren, Annika and Pierce Welle, and Kieran and Marit Johnson; three siblings, Rex (Debbie) Porter, Mary (Luis) de Sousa, and Paul (Katy LeBarron) Porter; and former spouse, David Nelson.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the YMCA, Fergus Area College Foundation, Fergus Falls Center for the Arts, or the organization of the donor's choice.

Memorial Service: 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 12, 2024 at Federated Church in Fergus Falls, with visitation one-hour prior to the service at the church

Clergy: Reverend Dr. Douglas Dent

Interment: Knollwood Memorial Gardens, Fergus Falls, MN

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfunderalhome.com.