Joan C. Porter

Joan C. Porter, 79, of Laramie, Wyoming, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, at Ivinson Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her family.

Born April 5, 1946, in Laramie to John and Lucille Hill (McFarland), Joan was also blessed with the guidance of her stepfather, Chuck McFarland, and stepmother, Mary Reitsma (McFarland).

In 1969, Joan married Wes L. Porter, and together they built a life rooted in love and family. She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Nicoll L. Cassidy, and the proud grandmother of Brianna J. Cassidy. She is also survived by her sisters, Janice Borah and Joyce (Doug) Powell; her brother, Tim (Patty) McFarland; and numerous nieces, nephews, and loved ones she considered her own.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Dale Hill; her parents, John and Lucille Hill (McFarland); her stepparents, Chuck and Mary McFarland (Reitsma); and her husband, Wes L. Porter.

Joan dedicated her life to caring for others, working for 53 years as a nurse at Ivinson Memorial Hospital. She began her nursing journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant, continued her studies through Laramie County Community College, and advanced to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. With her determination and love for the profession, she went on to earn her bachelor’s degree and proudly served as a Registered Nurse, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, mentorship, and excellence in patient care.

Outside of her career, Joan was a true adventurer. She embraced life with passion, traveling the world and enjoying activities such as kayaking, skydiving, snowshoeing, camping, and hiking. Her love for exploration and adventure inspired everyone around her to live fully and fearlessly.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 10, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at the Alice Hardy Stevens Center in Laramie, Wyoming. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the incredible life Joan lived.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joan’s memory to the Ivinson Hospital Foundation (imhfoundation.org), Patient Assistance Fund, or the Educational Excellence Fund to continue her nursing legacy and passion for helping others.

Joan will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, adventurous spirit, and lifelong dedication to healing and serving others—as she set sail on her last and final adventure. Bon Voyage, Joanie!