STEPHEN POTOSKY

POTOSKY
July 17, 1923 - July 24, 2025
Stephen A. Potosky passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 24th, 2025, one week following his 102nd birthday, with his son by his side. Steve was born in Fort William to Andrew and Anne (Matulak).

He was the beloved husband of Olga (Mazurkewich) and they celebrated their 78th wedding anniversary on November 21st, prior to Olga's passing in March of this year. Together they had three sons, David (Cheryl), Jim (deceased Oct 2024), and Steve Jr.

Steve Sr. was predeceased by siblings Ann Tuhkanen (Toivo), Tony Potosky (Alice), and Cecilia Gollat/Pero (Tommy/Ron). He is survived by sisters Agnes Andrea (Elias) and Bette LaBelle (Jim).

Steve was a devoted and loving grandpa to Kate Potosky (Anton), Lauren Potosky (Jeff), Patrick Potosky (Lorena), Sarah Potosky (Chris), Sheena Miller (Michael), and Taj Larson-Potosky. Steve and Olga were thrilled to add great-granddaughter Remi van Rhyn to the family tree in 2020.

A lifelong resident of Thunder Bay, Steve worshipped and was an original parish member of St. Elizabeth's Roman Catholic Church. He was a devout parishioner, supporting many charities and through many volunteer efforts as well. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus since 1955 and heavily involved in the construction of the Columbus Centre and the history of the Thunder Bay Chapter.

In his early years after volunteering into the army at the latter stages of World War Two, he was employed and became a part owner and Works Manager of Thornes Mfg. Limited, well known in the area for its leading position in its field, including work with Avro (including the Avro Arrow), the Thornes boat line, and contracts with the US military, in which he held the highest level of security clearance. After Thornes closure, Steve went on to a distinguished career as a machinist at Great Lakes Paper, including leading their ushering in of CAD/CAM (computer-controlled design and machining) at the company.

Steve's tenacity showed itself when faced with a challenging problem. He could fix anything, and often fashioning replacement parts on his lathe in the basement. Whether at work, or a home researching such things as the family tree, he was one not to give up until things were factually perfect. Even the smallest detail in anything was important, this is how he led his life.

Steve was an avid fisherman, trout fishing was his specialty, joined with Olga, the boys, and his brother Tony. Olga and Steve fished together well into their 80's. He was also an avid gardener, priding himself on an immaculate vegetable garden, well cared-for lawn, and in particular his tea roses that Olga cut daily to scent the house.

In his senior years he embraced modern technology, both the computers and the internet. He had a natural curiosity and thirst for knowledge, his inquisitive mind both admirable and frustrating to his tech team (namely family members, including nephews). Although Steve has passed, he has left a long legacy, and will never be forgotten.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. M Tassone for her care in his latter years, and to the staff of Leila Greco (2018-2023) and Hogarth (2024-25), for the compassion and care of our father.

A public visitation will be held from 6:30 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, August 26th at the Blake Funeral Chapel with prayers being offered at 7:00 pm. Funeral Services will follow on Wednesday August 27th at 10:30 am in St. Elizabeth's Roman Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider donating to your favourite charity in memory of Steve, as he supported very many charities privately.

Condolences may be offered at www.blakesfuneralchapel.com