Andrew Porter, Pa. social worker

Andrew L.M. Porter, 56, of Media, a social worker and caterer, died of strokes last Friday at Riddle Memorial Hospital.

Mr. Porter, who had been struggling with diabetes and asthma for several years, became ill May 21 outside the Academy of Music after attending the University of the Arts graduation. His son, Andre, received his bachelor's degree at the ceremony.

"Drew was so proud. He told everyone for weeks about the graduation," said his wife, Pamela Washington Porter.

Mr. Porter retired in October from the Pennsylvania Department of Welfare. During his 29-year career with the state, he worked with early-childhood intervention programs, food stamps, and low-income energy assistance, and had been a probation officer.

For the last 12 years, he also operated Smoked Turkey Etc., a catering business.

A graduate of Overbrook High School, Mr. Porter earned a bachelor's degree from Cheyney University. For two years he taught music in the Philadelphia School District before becoming a state employee.

He played the trumpet and saxophone for pleasure and was a big Frank Sinatra fan, his wife said. He loved attending Eagles and Sixers games with his family, she said.

Mr. Porter and his wife were married for 28 years. He had hoped to spend their 29th anniversary in Hawaii and their 30th in Paris, she said.

In addition to his wife and son, Mr. Porter is survived by a daughter, Angelique; two brothers; and a sister.

Friends are invited to a coffee hour and tribute at 10 a.m. tomorrow, followed by a memorial service at 11, at D'Anjolell-Stigale Memorial Home, 3260 Concord Rd., Aston. Inurnment will be in Rolling Green Cemetery, West Chester.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Research Foundation, Individual Giving, 1701 N. Beauregard St., Alexandria, Va. 22311.