Richard G. Potter

Richard G. Potter, 81, of Millstadt, IL, passed away on Wednesday December 28, 2022, at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, IL. Richard was born on July 27, 1941, in East St. Louis, IL to Theodore and Sarah Potter, nee Rehg and they precede him in death. He was also preceded in death by his daughter Paula Potter.

Richard was raised in Okawville, IL. In early adulthood, he moved to Millstadt, IL where he would remain for the rest of his life. Richard had a distinguished career as a locomotive engineer for Union Pacific Railroad, retiring after 41 years of service. Richard was a proud and devoted member of the Masonic East Lodge 504, Scottish Rite and Ainad Shriners. He was very socially active and easily made friends everywhere he went. Before leaving a lot of social engagements, he would say “I’m sure happy you got to see me.” He had a sharp sense of humor and a story for every occasion. In his spare time, Richard enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time on his property in Eminence, MO “God’s Country”. Richard was adventurous and loved living life in the fast lane. He loved riding his motorcycle, going to races, hill climbing (won first place in the Super Senior group at 65 years old!) and terrorizing the streets of Millstadt on his side by side. Richard will be remembered as a loving son, brother, father, uncle, grandfather and great-grandfather and dear friend to many.

Left to cherish his memory are his children: Rick (Cherie) Potter, John Potter (Elaine Wilson), Mark Potter, Jodi (Kent) Fulton and Nicole (Dan) Clark; his siblings: Lois Schwoebel, Sonny Potter, Debbie (Dave) Rudy, Sherri Kendrick, and Ted Potter; his grandchildren: Justin (Chelsea) Potter, Andrew (Christine) Potter, Kyle Potter, Julia Potter, Emileigh Potter, Jerrod Potter Barker, Mia Potter, Jaxon Potter Barker, Tyler Clark, Eloise Clark and Vivienne Clark; his great-grandchildren: Joslynn Potter, Jillian Potter and Jacqueline Potter in addition to extended family members and countless friends.

Visitation will be held on Friday January 20, 2023 from 10:00am-12:00pm at St. James Catholic Church in Millstadt, IL, with Masonic Rites at 11:40am. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:00pm with Monsignor Marvin Volk, celebrant. Private inurnment will follow at a later date at Valhalla Gardens of Memory in Belleville, IL.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital, 4400 Clayton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 or at www.shrinerschildrens.org.

Hoffen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.