John B. Potochnik

John B. Potochnik, 91, of Hilliard, passed away Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at his home after a long illness.
John was born in Turtle Creek, PA, the son of the late John W. and Bernice Zupancic Potochnik. He grew up in Turtle Creek, and after graduating from high school, he worked in the area as ground crew for the FORT PITT Blimp and the Union Railroad. In 1953, he joined the U.S. Air Force and proudly served for six years.
He was stationed in Limestone, ME, at Loring Air Force Base. After receiving an honorable discharge in the late 1950s, he and his family relocated to Jacksonville, settling in the San Mateo area. Shortly thereafter, he began his career as an Air Traffic Controller at the old Imeson Airport on Jacksonville's northside, eventually transferring to the Air Traffic Control Center in Hilliard when it opened.
While living in San Mateo, John served as the assistant scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 408, where he enjoyed scouting with his two sons. John never met a stranger and was affectionately known as "Pappap" and "Grandpap" by his grandchildren.
In 1969, he and his family moved to Fernandina Beach, where they lived for many years before finally settling in Hilliard, FL, in the early 1990s. While living in Fernandina, John was a founding and active member of the Fernandina Beach Pirates Club. Hunting and fishing, being two of his passions, led him to be an original member, former president, and treasurer of the Turkey Town Hunting Club near Kings Ferry.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Norma LaRue Potochnik, and his brothers, Robert and Lawrence, as well as his sister-in-law, Nancy.
He leaves behind his sons and their wives: David and Vickie Potochnik of Port Orange, and Robert and Mary Potochnik of Fernandina Beach. He is also survived by his brother, Ventzel, and his wife, Susan Potochnik of Detroit, MI; a sister-in-law, Mary Potochnik of Palm Beach, FL; grandchildren Matthew, Andrew, Scott, and Austin; and great-grandchildren Eli, Owen, Raylan, Rhett, Chloe, and Kaila.
John's family wishes to extend a special thank you to Community Hospice & Palliative Care and its team: Julie, Kristeen, Chad, Belinda, Vincent, and Marvin.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to CommunityHospice.com in John's name.
John will be laid to rest with his wife at Jacksonville National Cemetery, where he will receive military honors from the U. S. Air Force on Thursday, October 2, 2025 beginning at 11:30 AM. His life, love, and legacy will be cherished and remembered by all who knew him.