In Memoriam: David Porter, Kichler

Renowned Kichler designer (retired) David Porter, age 93, passed away recently in Wisconsin.

According to his obituary, after a stint in the U.S. Navy and graduation from university, Dave began his career in lighting as a designer with a neon lighting manufacturer. “This was not his ideal position though, and he told his parents he was instead playing the piano professionally.” He was later hired by Nelson Bleisch (ALA Hall of Fame inductee) to work at Thomas Industries’ lighting division, where he worked until 1987.

Dave followed Nelson to Kichler at that time and worked there until his retirement in 2003. He was instrumental in moving Kichler to the forefront of the residential lighting industry and led a team of current and future industry leaders. He continued to freelance design for Kichler until 2018, when they were acquired by MASCO.

Dave bought a 300-acre farm in rural Wisconsin, where he enjoyed a peaceful life, leased some land to a local soybean farmer, but more importantly raised two horses that he and his wife, Annie rode daily, until they moved into a retirement complex near their family.

“Dave was always practical with his designs. Nothing was too precious as long as his core design was intact. He understood the manufacturing process and the realities of cost and profitability. He made frequent trips to Taiwan and China, where he helped many early suppliers to the lighting industry create better products,” noted Kichler design colleague Jeff Dross (retired).

“It is with great sadness to learn that long-time Kichler head designer David Porter has passed away,” said Kichler executive Barry Minoff (retired). “David was instrumental in the very early years of Kichler and the industry going to Asia and in helping develop our supply chain there. While always soft spoken and the consummate gentleman David’s designs help put Kichler on the map. My condolences go out to his family.”

Added Hu Huang, executive director of international logistics and customs compliance for Kichler (retired), “I was fortunate to have a friend who was also my mentor for 37 years — a real gift in life. David was an honest person with a sense of humor. He was multi-talented, loved his wife, Annie, and spent time in nature. Meanwhile, he was also a well-known lighting fixture designer, who passionately kept designing until he was 85.  Truly, David was a part of the successful story of the old Kichler Lighting company. I am deeply grateful for the guidance and the friendship.”  

Recalled Ken Nicholas, senior product designer for Kichler (retired), “I remember my first day working at Kichler on David’s design team. He told me that there was no limit for anything. That meant a lot to me. He never held me back. He was important to Kichler’s growth.”

Said Colleen Visage, COO of Alteck Lighting, and past member of Kichler’s design team, “David Porter was not only a respected leader, but also a dear friend who left an indelible mark on my life. His kindness, humor, and unwavering belief in others made him truly exceptional. He was deeply respected by his colleagues, leading with generosity, integrity, and genuine care — always taking the time to uplift, mentor, and advocate for those around him. Throughout his many years at Kichler Lighting, David played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s design vision and creative direction — an influence that continues to be felt long after his retirement. He believed in me early on, and his mentorship and friendship helped guide my career in ways I will always carry with me. David’s impact, both personally and professionally, will never be forgotten, and he will be deeply missed.”

Tony Davidson, past Kichler president (retired), remarked, “David Porter led Kichler’s design team in the 1980s and 1990s and was, in my view and at that time, the most prolific designer in our industry. He had a rare ability to create innovative, mid-priced designs, one of the hardest challenges in lighting design. Under his leadership, Kichler introduced the iconic Olde Brick finish, and more than 20 years after his retirement, several of his designs are still being sold — a testament to his lasting impact.”

Richard Hammar, principal  of Hammer Designs, said, “Dave Porter was a kind, inspiring and prolific leader who mentored and molded many young designers. He taught us to see the world with brave, fresh vision and encouraged us to learn. He would see beauty in everything around him. Dave loved materials and product design. He valued and nurtured his team, his family, vendor and customer relationships. His respect for our industry will live on in all those he touched. His designs were timeless. Dave will be missed.”

Dave’s son, Erik, stated, “My father always felt he was the luckiest person in the world with how his life turned out and the adventures he had. Annie, travel, his farm, his creative job, and his many friends. He could never imagine his life being as full as it was.”