David George Potter

July 9, 1925 - Sept. 21, 2012
David George Potter passed peacefully into the Lord's loving arms on Sept. 21. Born in Sonoma, CA., son of David and Ethel Potter, David was raised in Vallejo. He left high school early in 1943 to join the Navy and serve his country. After the war, he completed his education and began his professional career as a draftsman at Mare Island Naval Ship Yard. Dave worked hard and eventually joined Design 244, designing diesel and nuclear submarines. As a loyal and adventurous employee, Dave would go out on sea trials, work overtime and travel extensively to support our nation's defense. Dave retired after 38 years of service at Mare Island. He quickly discovered joy in golf, fishing, S.I.R.S., Native Sons, traveling and spending time with his extended family.
In 1951, Dave met the love of his life, Rosemarie Raina. They quickly fell in love, married and began building the home they would share for over 58 years. Dave and Rosemarie had two children, David and Diane.
After retiring, Dave was diagnosed with Stargarts, a rare eye disease. Although he was legally blind for the rest of his life, Dave overcame many obstacles with grace, humor and persistence.
The Potters relocated to Fresno in 2009 to be near family and daughter Diane.
Rosemarie Potter and son David Potter preceded David in death. He is survived by daughter, Diane and son-in-law, Ted Miller; daughter-in-law, Eileen Potter; sister, Jane and Peter Franusich; sister-in-law, Gladys Raina Stockam; grandchildren, Charles Miller, Amelia Miller Bennett, David W. Potter, Dawn Potter Rumsey, and two great grandchildren.
A graveside service will be held on 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 29, at Tulocay Cemetery in Napa. Reception to follow at the Tulocay Reception Hall. Memorial gifts may be made to a charity of choice.