Nicholas Sean "Nick" Porter, 23

Nicholas Sean "Nick" Porter, 23, of Missoula, a student at the University of Montana, died Monday from injuries suffered in a fall on the university campus.

A memorial service is planned for 2 p.m. Saturday at the First Lutheran Church in Havre, with Pastors Brad Ulgenes and Catherine Card officiating.

Memorials in Nick's honor may be made to the Havre Lions Swim Team; Havre High School Band; University of Montana Music Department Missoula, MT 59812-7992.

Services and arrangements are under the direction of Holland & Bonine Funeral Home of Havre.

Nick is survived by his parents, Gary and Sally Porter of Havre; brother Chris, and sister Gwen, both of New York City, and sister, Maureen who is currently serving as part of the 15th MEU of the Marine Corps aboard the Bonhomme Richard deployed in the Northern Arabian Sea. Also surviving are grandparents, Ed and Maisie Porter, of Whitefish; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Nick was born in Missoula, on Nov. 8, 1981. He attended school in Missoula and Kremlin before coming to Havre in the third grade.

He graduated from Havre High in 2000. Nick went on to study music at the University of Montana in Missoula. He was due to complete his bachelor's degree in percussion performance in May of this year.

Nick was a talented musician in percussion and piano. At Havre High he participated in virtually every ensemble possible. He was given the John Phillip Sousa Award and the Music Departmental Award his senior year.

At the U of M he continued to study percussion and piano. He participated in symphonic winds, marching band, pep band, orchestra, percussion ensemble, jazz band, and the Missoula Symphony Orchestra. This fall he won the University of Montana concerto competition. He also performed frequently and assisted with the music at the First Lutheran Church in Havre. His music will be missed.

Nick worked at the Havre community pool as a lifeguard and taught swim lessons during his summers in Havre. Nick was an avid skier and swimmer. He pursued his interests with vigor and determination while always holding himself to a very high standard. His honesty and vivaciousness made him fun to be with. He always led, supported, and taught those around him.

His energy and spirit were infectious and inspiring. Nick loved life and worked hard at it.

Nick was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Constance Matthew.

Nick's family and friends will remember the unique place he held in all of our hearts.