It is with great sorrow that we announce that our company has lost one of our members. David Porter passed away on Tuesday, November 9th at his home in Ocala, Florida. His contribution to Aqua-Yield in just over a year and to the agriculture industry is immeasurable. Born and raised in Arkansas, David was a 1983 graduate of Jonesboro High School in Jonesboro, Arkansas and a 1988 graduate of Arkansas State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agronomy. 

David was a man of many talents, knowledge, and hobbies. I personally will always remember him as hilarious, witty, and smart. David taught me a lot about southern crops; having always lived in Ohio my first experience with him seeing harvest ready cotton was amazing. David also took me around the National Farm Machinery Show almost 13 years ago when I first entered the agriculture industry with no experience. He always got me to venture out my comfort zone when it came to food and was a joy to talk to and hang out with. David was always willing to help me further understand agronomics. I will miss his humor and knowledge.

Jim Krebsbach, VP of Sales, had a 10-year working and social relationship with David. Having learned much through David’s experiences and relationships prior agriculture positions, Jim was eager to hire David last March as part of the Aqua-Yield® sales team to develop the southeast US. Jim states, “David was a joy to be around. Some people saw him as “rough around the edges” but those who were close to David knew that he was a gentle, caring person. His one-line comments always made me laugh and smile. David always gave to those around him, and even after death, David is still giving.” David will be living through those that will be receiving his organs. “David was a friend and one of the smartest people I know. He is already deeply missed.”

Mark Mitchell is also dealing with the loss of a great friend and coworker. David trained Mark at a prior job on all he needed to know about row crops.  Mark states, “No one could make me laugh harder with his Davidism’s! Smart as anyone I ever met as well. I don’t think there was a book out there he hadn’t read no matter the topic. He will be missed.”

Clark Bell, CEO, states, "Upon my first meeting with David, I knew he was a perfect fit to become our regional manager in the SouthEast. David possessed knowledge, endless crop experience and had relationships with all the key people in the SouthEast farming community.  David was a true Southern Gentleman. He always made everyone feel at home with his laid back personality and friendly nature. I will miss him as a friend and coworker. All of Aqua-Yield and the greater SouthEast agriculture are grateful for all that he accomplished in his career. Rest in Peace Porter."

According to his obituary David was preceded in death by his Mother, Donnie Kay Porter, and his Father, J. Darryl Porter. He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Porter (FL); his sister, Dana Kay Porter (AR); his children, Amie Kay Porter (FL), Megan Nicole Smith (FL), April (Trey) Watson (AR), Hope (Cody) Kierre (AR), and Justin (Sam) Ellison (AR); five grandsons, 2 nephews, and several cousins, uncles and aunts. He also leaves behind a legacy with his family at Aqua-Yield.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made in David’s name to Everglades Coalition, as the Everglades was one of his favorite places, and near and dear to his heart.