Charles E. Porta

Charles Edward Porta passed away Sunday, November 6, 2022, at his home surrounded by family. He was born May 26, 1943, in Los Angeles, CA, the son of Thelma (Rankin) and Charles H. Porta. At the young age of 7, he survived a tragic car accident that took the lives of his parents. He was adopted and raised by his paternal aunt and uncle, Hazel and Lester Porta. Charlie graduated from Northwest Classen High School in 1961. He attended Oklahoma City University before jumping into the booming Oklahoma oil and gas industry and remained vitally connected to this commerce for the rest of his life as a respected Landman. He worked for twelve years with Standard Oil of Ohio before co-founding the oil & gas brokerage firm, Porta & Nixon. In 1989, he founded his own company, Springer Land Service, where he remained at the helm until his death. Charlie was a constant figure at county courthouses throughout Oklahoma and southwest United States. He was a valued resource and mentor to many in the business. Charlie had a passion for planes and became a pilot as well as an instructor pilot. He was an excellent cook and expressed his love by scouring cookbooks to prepare meals and bring together the people he valued most. His family and friends have many wonderful memories of meals shared, often with one of Charlie's signature desserts. He loved to cook and entertain with Diane at their home in Oklahoma City and at his beloved property he developed on Lake Texoma. Charlie, known for his integrity and honesty, was valued as a true and loyal friend by many who remained close to him since childhood. He is survived by his devoted wife of 22 years, Diane; three stepchildren, Amy Ford Bradley and husband Chad of Alexandria, VA; Allison Ford Lewis and husband Jason of Dallas, TX; and Robert Tyler Ford of Oklahoma City; in addition, five step-grandchildren, Emma, Cate & Tess Bradley; and Nathan & Taylor Lewis. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Zerlina "Dean" and Debbie.Charlie will be remembered by his family at a gathering at their home at a later date.