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1983 - 2018
1983 - 2018
Obituary
Guest Book
Dawud “Dave” L. Potak-Gibbs left this world on April 21, 2018 with his wife Laura and daughter Summer by his side at home. Dave bravely fought kidney cancer for two years and inspired many with his strength and optimism.
Born on February 7, 1983 in Philadelphia, Dave graduated from Germantown High School and most recently resided in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania.
As a chef, he worked for years in corporate dining for Compass Group, as well as in fine dining restaurants such as R2L and The Capital Grille. Most recently he was a stay at home dad, a cherished experience that was invaluable for Summer.
After meeting in 2006, Dave and Laura (a native of Pittsfield, MA) were inseparable and shared each other’s interests, such as Philly sports, camping, softball, cooking, and music. They were married on May 13, 2011.
Dave was loved by many and will be missed dearly. Aside from Laura and Summer, he leaves his mother Elizabeth Vann, mother-in-law Mary-Jane Sackett, stepfather-in-law Russell Sackett, and sisters Saadiqa Vann, Dannette Vann, Carmen Vann, Ametria Gibbs, and Renee Wigfall. He also leaves siblings-in-law Sarah Scarola, Karen Potak, David Potak and Catherine Potak, as well as their spouses. Dave also leaves many nieces and nephews, and many friends who were like family, as well as a cat Christine. He was predeceased by his father David Montgomery Gibbs.
A Memorial Service and Celebration of Dave’s Life will be held on May 19 at 2 pm at the Main Line Unitarian Church, 816 Valley Forge Rd., Devon, PA. Interment is private for the family
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Dave's memory at: www.gofundme.com/new-daddy-dave-fighting-cancer
Ann Mottley
June 27, 2018
Laura, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Dave, your husband. I last saw him on Christmas Day at your parents' home in Pittsfield. The house was full of kids all ages enjoying family fun, a great Christmas Dinner and lots of laughter while opening mystery gifts. Your husband sat comfortably, enjoying sports games on TV.... together with most of the other males of the family. I don't remember hearing about his illness and so, his obituary was a very sad surprise. I will keep you and your daughter in my prayers asking God to comfort and heal you. Much love, Annie
Jacqueline Condron
May 22, 2018
Dear Laura & Family:
I am so very sorry for your loss. Sending you strength and comfort through this difficult time.
May 15, 2018
Dear Laura, Summer and the entire Potak-Gibbs family, I want to express my sincerest condolences in the passing of your dear Dave (Dawud). I know you dont know me, but I am a high school friend of Mary Jane.
Carol Travers Hoyda
Great Neck, NY
Keith and Claire Caesar
May 15, 2018
Dear Laura, Keith and I are so sorry for your loss. Know that we think of you and pray for strength.
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Mitch & Rose Massaconi
May 15, 2018
Dear Mary-Jane and Potak-Gibbs Family.
Our deepest condolences are expressed to you during this sad loss. It is so difficult to find words. We are so sorry.
Kathy Law
May 14, 2018
Laura and Summer
I feel for you and pray for your family in this time of sorrow.
Dave was the nicest guy and his food he prepared at the company i worked for was very good.
May you find peace and comfort in the days, months and years ahead. Remember he will always be in your heart and with you in Spirit.
Chanel and Catora Jones
May 14, 2018
Dave... We love you and miss You.
Syderia Garrett-Willis
May 14, 2018
I'm sending my love and prayers to u and ur family members and my deepest condolences. I'm so sorry for your loss and I will keep u and ur daughter in my prayers.
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