Frank Charles Potje Jr.

Honoring an Incredible Man Loved by All

Frank Potje was born on October 1, 1952, at Fort Dix, New Jersey, to Anne and Frank Potje Sr. He was the proud big brother to four sisters-Anne Winn, Peggy, Mary, and Geraldine, who absolutely adored him.

The family later settled in the Bay Area, where Frank graduated from Union City High School. Soon after, he joined the U.S. Navy and served as a Photographer's Mate aboard the USS Kitty Hawk

Following his service, Frank earned an Associate's Degree in Horticulture, combining his appreciation for nature with his curiosity and care for living things.

In 1983, Frank met the love of his life, Sue Patterson. It was truly love at first sight. Just eight months later, they were married in Bend, Oregon, where they built their life of 42 years together. They welcomed two sons, Rick and Mike, who were the center of Frank's world. He loved attending their ball games, teaching them to fish, and especially taking them deep-sea fishing-continuing a beloved tradition he had shared with his own father.

Frank's greatest joy came later in life when he became a grandfather to Clark and Charlotte. He cherished every moment with them and spoke often of how proud he was of his family.

Frank went on to earn his Bachelor of Nursing degree from Linfield College at Good Samaritan Hospital in Portland. He dedicated his career to serving others as a Community Health RN with the Department of Human Services (DHS), collaborating with Seniors, People with Disabilities. His compassion, advocacy, and warmth touched countless lives. His patients adored him-and he adored them right back.

One of Frank's most beloved traditions was dressing up as Santa Claus every Christmas at Pioneer Hospital, delighting patients and colleagues alike. With his twinkling eyes and hearty laugh, he was the perfect jolly old elf.

Frank will be remembered for his generous heart, quick wit, and larger-than-life sense of humor. He had a gift for making others feel seen, valued, and loved-and that legacy will live on in all who knew him.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Sue; sons Mike and Rick and daughter-in-law Christine; cherished grandchildren Clark and Charlotte; his beloved sisters Anne Winn (Tom), Peggy, Mary (Dave), and Geraldine; sisters-in-law Beth (Larry) Pool and Cindy (Cal) Ozaki; and many nieces and nephews, and forever friends who were forever enriched by his kindness and laughter.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Anne and Frank Sr.; his in-laws, Dick and Beverley Patterson; and sister-in-law Debbie Patterson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace First Lutheran Church or Central Oregon Veterans Outreach.

Niswonger-Reynolds Funeral Home was honored to serve the family. www.niswonger-reynolds.com