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Jeffrey Potter Obituary
Jeffrey William Potter (60), a resident of Alameda, NM, died on December 3, 2015 due to brain cancer. Born in Los Alamos, NM, on June 30, 1955, he graduated from Los Alamos High School, University of New Mexico (B.A. Fine Art and B.S. Biology) and University of Georgia (M.S. Biochemistry). He retired from UNM Cancer Center as a Research Scientist in 2006. Jeff was a talented artist and scientist, a leader in the fine art community, Sierra Club and Alameda North Valley Association.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Marilyn Ruth Potter.
Jeff is survived by wife of 36 years, Deborah Ulinski Potter; father Robert Marshall Potter; sisters Christine Pugh and Elizabeth Niccum; brothers Stephen Potter and Jared Potter.
A funeral Mass will be held at 9:00 am on Tuesday, December 15th at the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, Alameda, NM. Eulogy and reception to follow. The Committal of Cremated Remains will be at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.
Thank you to all of our friends and family that brought light to this difficult path and to the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center for Jeff's treatment.
Gifts to the Jeffrey Potter Contribution Account at the Bank of Albuquerque (in the name of Deborah Potter) will be used as memorial Awards for Artistic Excellence. Judges at juried competitions such as Rio Grande Art Association, Pastel Society of NM and Plein Air Painters of NM will select the award winners in Jeff's honor.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jeffrey Potter
Irene Martinez
December 3, 2024
Jeff was a person of many talents: scientist, artist, chef, and more. Yet, he was always humble.
Ellen
December 7, 2023
Jeff and I worked as research scientists at UNM. He was such a hard worker. I was so happy when he retired and was able to create so much beautiful Art.
Irene Martinez
December 3, 2023
Memories of Jeff make me smile!
Irene Martinez
December 3, 2021
I am so grateful to have some of his beautiful paintings in my home. It keeps his spirit alive for me and brings fond remembrances to mind.
Irene Martinez
December 4, 2020
The passage of time does not diminish our fond memories of Jeff!
David and Kathy Lindner
December 3, 2020
Think about Jeff all the time.
Deborah Potter
December 10, 2019
Wow, I didn't know folks were getting an email about the 4th anniversary of Jeff's death. Thanks for letting me know, Jon. Our Lady of Guadalupe bronze emblem and photo from Nativity Church are permanent decorations I bought for our niche on the first anniversary. The emblem reminds me of our home on Guadalupe Ct. including our stained glass with Our Lady of Guadalupe (Jeff's art trade for a large painting of the Sandias). Since I enjoy seeing other photos at Gate of Heaven cemetery, I decided that would be a nice touch. Thanks to all our friends for keeping in touch -- it means a lot to me. -- Deb and the Aussies
Al Villareal
December 9, 2019
I think of Jeff often especially when I look at the wonderful painting that he did, which is just inside my front door. Today is no exception since Theresa and I had to put our Zoie down this afternoon. I remember the agility trials where Zoie and I shared a canopy with Jeff and Azor. These are great memories. Jeff was a good man with a great sense of humor and so much fun to be around. Our thoughts and prayers are also with you Debbie.
Jon Poling
December 3, 2019
December 3rd, 2019. Homer here in Minnesota! There are still a few Trout to catch up there in that Rio Grande Box and over in "Debbie's Pool" on the 'Juan! Jeff, you were the best "Fishin' Buddy" ever! Hi to Dr. Deb!
Irene Martinez
December 3, 2019
We remember Jeff when we gaze upon the beautiful paintings of his that we have in our home. We miss him.
December 23, 2015
Deborah, Jerry and I will also miss Jeff. We had no idea of all he has done. We've known him only as an artist. We know you will miss him terribly, and our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Barb Hunt
December 15, 2015
We are so saddened by Jeff's death. He was a great, caring friend. We will cherish the volleyball & skiing memories the most!
Mark DeTar
December 14, 2015
Jeff,
I was greatly saddened by your passing, it was too soon and this world is certainly diminished by it. A kind and gentle soul, a good man by any standard, we could use more like you. Many of us share your love of the Southwest and nature, but your ability to capture its beauty and light in your art was unique and an awesome gift to us all. I'm truly grateful for the loving friendship you and Deb have shown Irene and I and Ethan over the years . . . helping us with our long-distance wedding plans and providing a refuge during our Albuquerque visits will never be forgotten, neither will the simple joys of sharing a good meal and conversation, camping and hiking in the Rockies or shooting hoops in your driveway. Good memories.
It was an honor to know you compadre, be at peace, I will miss you.
Jeff w/ brother Jared @ BigholeBighole R, MT
David & Susan
December 13, 2015
Making the best of precious time
David & Susan
December 13, 2015
Ellen Wylie
December 13, 2015
I Love You
Paul Karas
December 12, 2015
Will miss you Jeff; your appetite for adventure, your art, your friendship. Glad to have known you and shared a few of those adventures together.
Ellen Wylie
December 12, 2015
Jeff was a great scientist because he was as creative in experimenting as with everything in his life. After I left research, Jeff came to my High School Biology class and demonstrated DNA fingerprinting techniques. Our shared love of flowers prompted him to bring me Iris transplants yearly. They were tall and proud like him. He helped me through so many difficult times in my life. I kept trying to pay him back. He did go to get massages at my cancer clinic. He was my other brother that I loved dearly. Peace.
Stephanie Kouretsos
December 11, 2015
Jeff was one of my favorite guys. Sweet friendly extremely talented. Always a joy to see him and Deb and their three dogs at SDOC or at an agility trial. All that knew him will miss him.
Stephanie Kouretsos
Susan Kutvirt
December 11, 2015
Jeff was my old compadre in DVE's lab at UNM. He was a terrific scientist and such a warm human being. I couldn't have asked for a better coworker. The last time I saw Jeff he was working with his beautiful aussie Azor and the joy was evident in both dog and handler. Jeff was talented in so many ways. I loved following his Facebook accounts of his intense joy in living the past few years. He lived life to the fullest! We're all better people for having known him during his all-too- brief life. My heart goes out to Debbie and to Jeff's family.
Al/Theresa Villareal
December 11, 2015
Theresa and I were saddened too learn of Jeff's passing. He was such a kind and gentle man. I enjoyed the time we spent at agility trials, sharing a canopy with our dogs, and cheering each other to get another "Q" towards another agility title. (Debbie, thank you for all the agility assistance you gave me when I was just starting out.) We will never forget La Posadas at the Potter's. I was amazing to see the fondness and love that many people had for Jeff. We will miss him. The family is in our thoughts and prayers.
my friend
Ellen Wylie
December 11, 2015
David Glass
December 10, 2015
This world has lost a brilliant light with the passing of good old Jeff. His quiet excellence and consistent kindness were a blessing to have experienced. Godspeed Sir!
Karin Simmons
December 10, 2015
We are so sorry to hear of Jeff's passing. Bob and I got to know Jeff when he entered the Escalante Canyons Art Festival and needed a place to stay. It was a pleasure to open our hearts and home to Jeff and Azor. He will be missed.
Jan Parker
December 10, 2015
A few years ago Jeff, Debby and their three dogs came to Bowen Island, BC to visit my husband and I.
I will always remember the afternoon, we went down to the beach and I got to watch Jeff paint.
We sat on the rocks and I was in awe as Jeff created something from nothing.
I say that because, he literally started with a blank canvas, and in a mere three hours, had a work of art that captured the view and the day. It was magic to me.
I think of that day and Jeff often. I am grateful we shared it.
My deep and sincere sympathy to Debby and his family.
Susan Stone
December 10, 2015
I've known Jeff since we were kids and he was such a nice, genuine person. Always with a smile on his face and adventure in his heart! His artwork was amazing and we've lost him way too soon. He lives on in our memories!
Deb Potter
December 10, 2015
For those who are asking: Please make check to Jeffrey Potter Contribution Account
Please write the account number on the check =
Deposit to Acct. ******5582
(Deborah Potter is the account holder).
Gifts can be made in person to any Bank of Albuquerque like Cottonwood Mall Branch 10040 Coors Bypass NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114
https://www.bankofalbuquerque.com/en/Other/location_listing.page
Or you can send a check by mail to:
Bank of Albuquerque
Attn: Bank by Mail
P.O. Box 26027
Albuquerque, NM 87125
Henry Longmire
December 10, 2015
This is heartbreaking news. My sympathy goes out to Jeff's family and his many friends. We will keep him in our hearts always.
Joan Fry
December 10, 2015
I knew Jeff only briefly from agility. I was struck by his presence, quiet demeanor and friendly manner. He as truly a kind man and will be missed.
Diana Stetson
December 10, 2015
Jitsudo and I were so struck by how elegantly Jeff faced his illness - our experience was that he became more open and loving, kept a sense of humor somehow - seemed to have really tapped into the joy of living in a way that truly inspired us. He was able to draw on something so wise and deep, and he made such wonderful use of the time he had left of this life. I will never forget what I learned from him in this way. What a wonderful teacher. But none of this is to say that it was easy for him or for his family - we can't even imagine what that part of the journey was like, and we are so sorry for the suffering that you all must have had to endure.. We send love to Jeff, gratitude to him for all that he offered us as a friend, an artist, and a leader of the Alameda Studio Tour. Sending our sincere condolences to Debbie and the whole family.
Jeff Potter and Ted Ulinski, Brothers in Law
Ted Ulinski
December 9, 2015
July 2014 at the Potters
Rose & Don Ditmore
December 9, 2015
Incomparable artist, scientist, adventurer, life partner - a few words to describe Jeff Potter, a man of exceptional talent. His quiet demeanor, soft laugh and love for Debby always shined brightly whenever our paths intertwined. Gone from our lives on Earth, but always in our hearts - forever. And to Debby - your courage, love and dignity shine along with Jeff. Many hugs to you.
Jeff and Azor on one of our rides together
John Parker
December 9, 2015
Jeff and I were roommates during at UNM. He was good-natured, hard-working and a good cook! Always a friend, wished I had found more time to spend with him these last years...
Janny Pezaro
December 9, 2015
Everyone who has known Jeff will miss him. He was just the kind of warm and giving person who touched many lives.
Bill Ranken
December 9, 2015
The day Jeff passed I had gone fishing along the upper Rio Grande river. I often wonder if Jeff has painted the cliffs I'm looking at when I am roaming the canyons of New Mexico. The fish weren't biting so I was scrambling in the black lava rocks looking for petrogyphs and dramatic scenery. A canyon wren popped up on rock not 20' from where I was standing admiring a beautiful ponderosa pine. The wren looked me straight in the eye and sang its echoing canyon song 3 times. It has been my favorite bird song for as long as I can remember. Never in my 50 plus years of wandering has that happened and when I learned later that Jeff had passed away I suspected his spirit was both teasing me and reminding how sacred the wild places are. Jeff would do that.
doug shaw
December 9, 2015
He was a good friend full of interests and always helpful. Will miss him.
Eva modrich
December 9, 2015
I met Debbie and Jeff thru the dog world, I will miss Jeff working his dog and taking the CGC at the club. I will miss the looks of love he would give Debbie.
David Lindner
December 9, 2015
It was an honor to have Jeff for a friend and neighbor. We will miss him. Peace Jeff. Kathy and David
Leah Wilds
December 9, 2015
I knew Jeff and Debbie back in the "day," at the University of Georgia. They were a fantastic couple. Jeff will always be with you, Debbie. He loved you very much. He was a gentle, kind and artistic soul and I am sad that he was taken so early. Jeff, I never forgot you and I never will.
Irene Martinez
December 9, 2015
Jeff was a long, cool, congenial hombre. He was an artist and scientist and excelled at both. He was a fantastic gardener and we often enjoyed the harvest with home cooked meals. Jeff was a rare and creative soul. l am so grateful to have known him.
Jon Poling
December 9, 2015
Fly fishing. Fly fishing for Trout! I will always cherish the times when I went fishing with Jeff. Didn't do it enough. Thanks Jeff and Deb.
With Love and Respect-
Jon Poling aka "Homer"
Jeff and Debby at our wedding. So sweet.
Page van der Linden
December 9, 2015
There was no one like Jeff. I feel so fortunate that we met, worked together, and stayed in touch from the first day I worked in his lab in 1985. Bless you, Jeff. Thank you for making me laugh.
Snow shoeing with Jeff at Wolf Creek pass.
December 9, 2015
I'm really sad to hear about Jeff's passing. I had a wonderful couple of days with him and Bill White in Pagosa Springs two years ago. He had a great sense of humor and a loving spirit. He will be missed.
Karen Green
December 9, 2015
Debby, what a beautiful tribute for a truly good guy. Loved seeing him run agility with a smile and enthusiasm. He will be missed.
John Gould
December 9, 2015
Jeff shared my love of the wonders of southern Utah. It made us brothers.
Chuck and Peggy Chandler
December 9, 2015
Jeff was a special man who made everyone feel like a friend, even if just met you. I envision Jeff in Heaven chatting with Michelango about painting the Cistine Chapel.
Mark Rupert
December 9, 2015
Jeff was such an incredibly talented and amazingly bright individual. Anytime I was with him I was sure to learn something new and/or find a different alternative to how a subject or task could and often should be viewed. I can't think of any man who I have encountered in my entire life who was as kind, well-grounded and as comfortable in his own skin as Jeff. He was a great husband to Debby and a sensational friend and partner while having fun living with, training and playing with their many dogs. In some ways Jeff was a similarly aged hero of mine - and now that he's gone I'm very sorry that I never communicated that to him. I'm sure he would have chuckled at my hero pronouncement but at the same time I hope he would have realized how true it was.
The only way I can explain to myself why Jeff was taken away from Debby and the rest of us so early in his middle-age years is the thought that God or a higher power has a most important and difficult task that can only be completed by the incredible Jeffrey Potter. We'll miss you Jeff. Thank you for all your good works down here on earth!
mary stover
December 9, 2015
I knew Jeff through his love for dogs and nature. He was always gentle, funny and a great man. His works and love will forever touch the world.
David and Kathy
December 9, 2015
I.ry much. Peace Jeff
Dawn Hamilton
December 9, 2015
Jeff was definitely one of the "good guys"----a true gentleman. He will be missed, but never forgotten.
Carl and Hannah Agee
December 9, 2015
We will miss you very much Jeff.
Ted Ulinski
December 9, 2015
Deepest regrets and shared sorrow
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