James Louis "Jim" Porfilio

Always the educator, Jim’s legacy is defined by his teachings and his devotion to help children pursue better futures. “Mr. P.” dedicated 35 years as a beloved MPS social studies/environmental teacher and drama coach at Edison Jr. High and Webster Middle School. Jim was especially drawn to high-interest work with at-risk children.

Always the naturalist, Jim’s love for improving the environment included founding an urban green space. His leadership engaged students, teachers, parents, and community in planting the Webster Wilderness, 5+ acres of outdoor educational classrooms and trail. Enrichment work continued with neighboring Havenswoods State Forest.

He was a proud UW-Milwaukee graduate and President of the Delta Kappa Epsilon Fraternity.

In retirement, Jim relaxed around his firepit, served as a 4-H fishing teacher at the Long Lake Fishing Club, and as Chairman of the Fond du lac Shoreline Zoning Board, DNR.  He also helped restore the town’s historic mill to working order, now the Dundee Mill Park. As snowbirds, Jim started the “Sunset Club”, in Panama City Beach, for daily cocktail parties watching the sun dip into the ocean. In a second move to Arcadia Village, Fl, he could be found fishing in the man-made ponds and singing in senior community productions. In final resting, Jim was a proud resident at Luther Manor in Wauwatosa. Jim and Sharon of 57 years often remarked, “We lived a slice of life!”

Survived by the love of his life, “Babe”, Sharon Porfilio; daughter Laura and (Adam) Glawe; granddaughters Madeline & Analiese; Son, Mike and (Lisa) Porfilio, grandsons Sam, Nick and Will.

Forever the teacher, our beloved husband, Dad and Poppa graced us with his mission in life to make a lasting impact on society. To you, we can say the world has felt your passion and determination. Thank you for instilling such values in us.

Green burial for family to be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials to the Urban Ecology Center appreciated.

James Louis Porfilio, died peacefully sleeping, age 85, June 16, 2020.

We are grateful he left a long trail of people and places behind that are better off because of him.