Maria Vanderhaar Porter, a beloved librarian, mentor, and cherished family member, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2025, in Bowling Green, Ohio. Born on July 31, 1935, in Louisville, Kentucky, Maria dedicated her life to the pursuit of knowledge, community service, and the love of her family.
Maria's intellectual journey began when she completed her college education in 1956 in Louisville. Shortly after, she moved to Chicago, where she joined the Encyclopedia Britannica Library Research Service. Her passion for literature and information guided her career, leading her to the South Bend Public Library in 1961. Even after welcoming two sons into her life, she stayed with Encyclopedia Britannica, showcasing her devotion both to her profession and her family. In her quest for knowledge, Maria returned to education in 1974, earning a Master of Library Science degree from Indiana University-Bloomington which she attended with her sons. This accomplishment paved the way for her to become the main librarian at the Roger B. Francis Branch and later, as a personnel administrator at the main library in St. Joseph County, where she served until her retirement in 1996.
Maria’s love for reading was matched only by her love for those around her. Before making her home in South Bend, she spent a year in Europe with her sister and brother, an adventure that surely enriched her worldview. In 1978, she married Lee N. Porter, sharing a bond that would shape her later years. Despite facing health challenges that confined her to a wheelchair due to a neurological condition, Maria approached life with resilience and a warm spirit. Her membership in Alcoholics Anonymous since 1975 highlighted her commitment to personal growth and support for others facing similar struggles.
She is survived by her son, John-Paul (Asha) Simon and daughter-in-law, Maria Simon; her cherished grandchildren, Anne-Marie, Genevieve, Martin, Louis, and Ella Hoang-Simon; and her step-children: Sandra (John) Tiffany, Barbara (Tim) Kujawski and Todd (Jennifer) Porter.
Maria is preceded in death by her husband, Lee N. Porter; son, Marc Simon; step-daughter, Nikki Porter; brother, Jim and sister, Margaret.
Maria will be remembered not just for her impressive career, but for her kindness and the countless friendships she fostered throughout her life. She leaves behind a legacy of inquiry, compassion, and strength that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, February 3, 2025 at St. Therese, Little Flower Catholic Church, 54191 N. Ironwood Rd., South Bend at 11:30 A.M., with visitation one-hour prior.
Burial will immediately follow at Mount Pleasant Cemetery.
In place of flowers, please make donations to a charity that is dear to you.
Monday, February 3, 2025
10:30 - 11:30 am (Eastern time)
St. Therese, Little Flower Catholic Church
Monday, February 3, 2025
Starts at 11:30 am (Eastern time)
St. Therese, Little Flower Catholic Church
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