THOMAS E. POTTER

Jan. 4, 1957 - Oct. 9, 2011
SOUTH BEND - Former South Bend resident Thomas Edward Potter, 54, of Chicago, IL, died unexpectedly on Sunday, October 9, 2011, in his residence of arteriosclerotic heart disease. Tom was born January 4, 1957, in South Bend, to Donna L. (Freel) and Tom J. Potter, and had lived most of his life in South Bend until moving to Chicago. He is survived by his parents, Donna L. and Tom J. Potter of Granger, IN; his sister, Diane Johnston (Doug) of Kouts, IN; his brother, Timothy W. Potter (Mary) of South Bend; seven nieces and nephews.

Tom graduated from Clay High School in 1975 and Ball State University, Muncie, IN, in 1979. He was a special education teacher for one school year in Muncie and a State Farm Insurance agent in South Bend for over 25 years. He loved traveling and visited many countries, states and cities. Tom expressed an interest in working with animals at an early age. He was known to bring home stray dogs and cats as well as those that he had purchased (much to his parents' dismay). At the age of 15, Tom had his first job with a local veterinarian. He once flew home with a stray cat from California. His grandma was very happy with that! For those who had the opportunity to meet Tom, he left a lasting impression. He was quick-witted, funny, sarcastic, caring and extremely generous. Tom left us too soon, but he also left us with a lot of memories. Let us all remember and focus on the good memories because we have a treasure trove of great ones to choose from.

Cremation has taken place and private memorial graveside services were held at Riverview Cemetery.

Published by South Bend Tribune on Oct. 23, 2011.

10/31/2022 EJS