William Louis Potucek

William Louis Potucek, D.D.S., 87, died peacefully at home in Presque Isle, Wisconsin. His final moments were under the Northern Lights as they danced across the sky during the early morning hours of Feb. 27, 2023.

Bill (also known by many as "Doc") was born in Michigan City, Indiana, on Jan. 23, 1936. He was the second son (and youngest) child of Joseph Charles Sr., D.D.S., and Harriet (Loveless) Potucek. In the early years of life, he lived above his father's dental practice, which sparked his interest and later defined his career choice.

He attended Elston High School in Michigan City, Indiana, where he met the love of his life, Diana Benoit. They dated for nine years and married on June 18, 1960.

Bill attended Oklahoma A&M (now Oklahoma State University) and graduated with honors. He thrived during his time there and added rodeo championships, school politics and many a party under his belt. He went onto the Indiana University School of Dentistry. After graduation, Bill joined his father, J.C., in their family dental practice in Michigan City, Indiana.

Bill had a passion for animals. He had an eye for a good dog and retired a number of national field champions (beagles/pointers/setters). His final dog, Gunnar, was his soul dog and we are sure he was the one to greet our father as he left this earth.

"Doc" was passionate about learning and self growth. He often told us to never rest on our laurels. He became an amazing carver, an accomplished fisherman/outdoorsman, a cook (one of his more unsuccessful ventures) and so much more. He also had a love of volunteering and worked with many groups throughout the years. After retirement, he especially loved his time with the Boulder Junction Lions, where he was an active member for 20 years and he was the recipient of the Melvin Jones Award for his service. In addition, he was an active member of St. Anne's Catholic Church in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin.

Bill and his beloved wife, Diana, were dedicated to each other for 61 years. Sweethearts, with a little spice, to the very end. They enjoyed nothing more than their family and community, until Diana no longer could participate due to her health.

He was survived by two children, Patrick (Heidi) Potucek of La Porte, Indiana, and Pam (Pat) Muenzner of Presque Isle, Wisconsin; and was a proud grandfather to Paige and Mack Potucek, and Jamie and Zac Muenzner. Doc had three nieces, Peggy Jo Potucek, Nancy Gilles and Andrea Glendenning; and three nephews, Michael and Ryan Potucek, and Paul Gilles. Doc also had many friends who became family, especially their foster son, Frank Pawlik; and his dear friend, JJ Skalka.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Harriet and J.C.; and his older brother, Joseph Charles Potucek Jr., D.V.M.

Forever remembered for his big heart, love of yard sales, adding copious amounts of glue to every repair job, and the most amazing laugh. His memory will continue to bring a smile to the many that loved him.

Memorial Mass for Doc will be on Saturday, June 24, at 11 a.m. at St. Anne's Catholic Church in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin, with a memorial gathering from 10:30 a.m. till time of service. Following the Mass everyone is invited to the Boulder Junction Community Center for a luncheon.

Online condolences may be shared at nimsgern funeral.com.

Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.