Obituary of Henri Leon Portine

Henri Leon Portine, 94, died at home, on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2015, with his family by his side. Born in New York City, NY and raised in Summit, NJ, Henri settled in Parsippany, NJ with his young family, in 1952. Together with his wife, the late Helen E. Portine, he built a home filled with love and laughter. Henri was a man of many talents and interests; chief among them was aviation. He served in the Army Air Corps during World War II as a Link Trainer instructor. He was a private pilot who flew single-engine planes and sailplanes, eventually building a personal sailplane with a fellow airman. Henri also wrote several articles for aviation magazines. Most importantly, he met his future wife at Somerset Hills Airport. Henri pursued an interest in pottery, studying with Gerry Williams, and joining the Carriage House Potters of Boonton, NJ. He was a ham radio operator and enjoyed making friendships throughout the country. Henri was employed by GE Medical Systems, and in that capacity, served on the hospital ship, Hope, while in Ecuador and Guinea. Above all, Henri was a devoted husband and father. He will be deeply missed by his children. Richard "Lee" Portine and Gail C. Portine. He is also survived by his brother, Roderick N. Portine, and many nephews and nieces. Along with his wife, he is predeceased by his sister, Barbara J. Brugliera. Like his wife, Henri was an avid reader, and the family would like to thank the Morris County library system, particularly the Mt. Tabor branch, for their many years of assistance. If you wish you may leave a condolence, at: www.normandean.com.