Robert "Bob" S. Potter

Robert "Bob" S. Potter, age 90, of Marysville, died February 4, 2016. Graveside and Celebration of Life services will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 19, 2016 in the Marysville City Cemetery. Bob was born to Earl and Vera (Coleman) Potter on February 20, 1925 in Sabetha, Kansas. He attended grade school in both Sabetha and Herkimer, KS and graduated from Marysville High School in 1943. Immediately after graduation, he joined the Navy and became a gunner and served in the South Pacific. Bob married Ferne A. (Bunny) Libby, his high school sweetheart, while on leave, on September 16, 1944. They had 71 wonderful years together. After WWII, Bob attended the Kansas City School of Watchmaking, where he also became a student instructor. He impressed one of his instructors so much, that he asked him to come to Denver and teach at the Academy of Horology (watchmaking and engraving). Bob taught there for 3 years. It was while they were in Denver that their first child, Robert, was born and the decision was made to move back to Marysville to be closer to their families. Bob and Bunny began Potters Jewelry in 1948. He continued his education and became a certified gemologist and goldsmith, as well as a certified diamond appraiser. There wasn’t a watch he couldn’t fix, a part he couldn’t hand craft and many people are owners of his unique handmade pieces of jewelry. Bob retired in 1991, but continued to assist Cathy Lesage, the new store owner, for many years. Bob always loved sports and was the captain of the MHS Football team. He continued his love of football by becoming a referee on Junior High, High School and College levels. He was an avid golfer and a member of the Marysville Country Club for many years, of which he served on the board and was president. He was proud of achieving the hole-in-one status and was club champion. Bob was a member of the First Christian Church and served as an usher, deacon, elder, trustee and elder emeritus. In the 60’s, Bob broadcasted church services on KNDY radio. He was also a Master Mason and Shriner. Bob golfed with the Nemar Shriners and help raise money for the Shriners Children Hospitals, a charity the he believed in. He served as a member of the school board, the Community Hospital Board and was a long time member of the Chamber of Commerce. Survivors include his loving wife, Bunny; children, Rob (Sue) Potter, Wamego, and Konnie (Roger) Jones, Frankfort; three grandchildren, Rob (Lisa) Potter, Overland park, Stacey (Jeremy) Williams, Wamego, and Chris (Becky) Jones, Plymouth, MN; nine great grandchildren, Luke, Dylan, Wyatt Potter, Taylor and Zach Williams, Cierra, Alexis, McKenna, and Taylee Jones; brother-in-law, Duff (Phyllis) Libby; sister-in-law, Patsy (Bob) Nork; several nieces and nephews; and special friend, Cathy (Mark) Lesage. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Richard; and infant sister, Mary. Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children. Kinsley Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert "Bob" S. Potter, please visit our flower store.