William Bill Potter

William "Bill" Walter Potter passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love and care of his family, on November 8th, 2025 in Chico, California. He was 90 years old.

Bill lived with an enormous heart and a spirit of unwavering service. To his family, friends, and neighbors, he was a steady presence-always ready with a listening ear, a curious question, or his infectious smile and laugh. Whether behind the pharmacy counter, perched on a tractor, or working through his daily crossword puzzle, Bill never missed a chance to connect with others. He is remembered by many as one of the kindest souls they had ever met. In his final months, he often expressed his deep gratitude for the life he shared with his beloved wife of 50 years, Ann, and for the blended, sometimes complicated, but always cherished family they built together.

Born on August 6th, 1935 at French Camp County Hospital to Ruth and Jack Potter, Bill grew up on the Potter ranch in Manteca as a proud third-generation farmer. He graduated from Manteca High School in 1953, serving as senior class president, and was known for his scholarship and warmth. As a boy, he was captivated by the wonder of flight, a passion that stayed with him throughout his life. He earned his pilot's license as an adult, and the joy of aviation never left him. Music was another lifelong love-Bill was an accomplished pianist with perfect pitch, and his home was often filled with the sound of classical pieces, from Bach to Jim Croce, that brought him peace and delight.

Bill attended Fresno State University and married his first wife, Janis Swanson, in 1955. Drafted into the Army in 1958, he served honorably as an airplane mechanic until 1960. Upon returning home, he and Jan started a family. In 1973, Bill graduated from the University of the Pacific's School of Pharmacy, beginning a career that combined his sharp mind with his compassion for others.

In 1976, Bill married Ann Kilbourn, and together they created a larger, blended family full of love and resilience. They returned to the Austin Road farm, where Bill balanced life as both pharmacist and farmer. In 1980, they welcomed their daughter Elizabeth, completing the family circle. After retiring from farming in 2006, Bill and Ann rebuilt a cottage home in Pacific Grove, California, where they enjoyed coastal life together. Bill continued working as a pharmacist into his 80's, always finding fulfillment in serving his community.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Ruth and Jack Potter, his siblings Jack Potter and Patricia Robenault (Potter), and his oldest son, Ole Potter. He is survived by his wife, Ann; children Kelly Angel (Potter), Debbie Potter (spouse of Ole), Erin Potter, Therese Reed (Vosburg) and Donald, Lucinda Dei Rossi (Vosburg) and Robert, Joe Vosburg and Linda, Chris Vosburg, Elizabeth Kysar (Potter) and Michael; his grandchildren Julia, Jon, Trevor, Brian Matthew, Mary, Drew, Madeline, Zoe, Elliott; and his great-grandchildren Gavin, Macie, Francis, and Oscar.

Bill's legacy is not only in the fields he farmed or the prescriptions he filled, but in the countless lives he touched with kindness, curiosity, and laughter. His family and friends will remember him not just for what he did, but for how he made them feel-valued, loved, and heard.

Flowers are welcome!