PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Christopher Raymond Porter, 54, of Sheffield Street died suddenly while hunting on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015.

Born in Pittsfield on July 12, 1961, son of Linda Koscher and the late John Porter, and stepson of Geri Porter, who held a special place in his heart, he was educated in local schools and was a 1979 graduate of Taconic High School.

A longtime contractor, Mr. Porter founded C.R. Porter Builders Inc. and completed countless projects throughout Berkshire County. He also was a proprietor of many businesses, including PortSmitt's Lakeway Restaurant and Johnnie's Variety Store.

Known as "Sonny" to his many close friends whom he considered family, he was whole-heartedly a most generous and accepting husband, father and friend. An avid hunter and fisherman, he could often be found on the various lakes of Pittsfield or in the surrounding woods. He served as the treasurer, secretary, "Director of Pots and Pans" and member of the Onota Fishing Club. The club has grown to what it is today through his hard work and dedication. He also played a major role in putting on an annual "Game Dinner" that brings together hundreds of people from the surrounding areas. He was also actively involved in the Pittsfield Sportsmen's Club.

He had a heart of gold and touched countless lives in the community and was active with the Jimmy Fund along with other various other charities and organizations. He was also a diehard Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and Boston College Eagles fan.

On Aug. 11, 1984, he married his soul mate and best friend, Paula M. Areno, at First United Methodist Church in Pittsfield. They shared 31 years of marriage enjoying numerous concerts, trips, and just being in each other's company.

Besides his wife, he leaves his three daughters, Jessica Porter, Sara Souza and her husband, Ted, and Lyndsey Porter; his son, Ryan Porter; four brothers, Michael Porter, John Porter, Joseph Porter and Robert Porter; a sister, Michelle Zayatz; three stepbrothers, Shaun McGinnis, Christopher McGinnis and Scott McGinnis; two grandchildren, whom he adored, Chalyce Ona Jones and Chase Joseph Jones; two best friends and companions, Rocco and Emma, and his grand-dogs, Bella and Lola-Bean; his aunt Mary Ferreira and uncle Ray and aunt Mary Tuggey, and their families, and extended family members and friends too long to list.

He was predeceased by his beloved in-laws, Joseph and Doris Areno, uncle Armando Ferreira, and his beloved Bella Boo Boo.

FUNERAL NOTICE — Services for Mr. Porter will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015, at 10 a.m. at the Flynn & Dagnoli-Bencivenga Funeral Home, 5 Elm St., Pittsfield, MA 01201 with the Rev. Monsignor Michael A. Shershanovich, pastor of St. Joseph's Church, officiating.

Calling hours at the funeral home will be Tuesday, Dec. 29, from 4 to 8. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Jimmy Fund in care of the funeral home.