Darrel J. Potts' Obituary
Darrel James Potts was born in Waupaca, WI on August 7, 1937 to Margaret and Albert
Potts. Darrel grew up on his family farm in Wild Rose, WI, where he enjoyed working
with his family on their farm. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday,
March 22nd 2023 in his family home in Almond, WI, surrounded by his loving family.
Darrel worked on his family’s farm until he was drafted to the Army in 1960, and
remained serving in Germany until 1962. When he came home, he went to work at
Kohler Co. in Kohler, WI, until he ultimately moved back into the area and helped out on
his family farm with his Dad. This is where he met and married his wife Carla Jo Lemke
of 45 years on July 23, 1977. He then began working at Shelmet Precision Steel Co,
where he worked for 41 years as a sand blaster. He took on a second job at a local farm as
well so his wife Carla could be a full time stay at home Mom to their 3 children: Valerie,
Natalie and Jeremy.
He loved his family, and spent everyday trying to make sure they were all safe and happy.
Loved watching his grandkids play volleyball, basketball, football, softball and baseball.
He also enjoyed playing solitaire, and after his retirement in June of 2019 which he was
very opposed to, he enjoyed driving around town in his golf cart, smiling and visiting
with his many friends.
He is further survived by his wife Carla Potts; Children: Valerie (Ken) Gendusa, Natalie
Potts, Jeremy (Robyn) Potts; Grandchildren: Gabrielle Gendusa, Katrina Gendusa,
Braden Potts, Madalyn Potts and Darron Potts. His sisters, Joan (Lane) Attoe of Wild
Rose, WI. Isabel Urban of Wild Rose, WI. Arveda (Harry) Kirk of Kaukauna, WI.
Sister-in-law Linda Potts of Wild Rose, WI. Brother-in-law Kevin (Susan) of Almond,
WI. In addition to all close family members, many nieces and nephews, two beautiful
goddaughters, one handsome godson and friends that visited and called Darrel.
He is preceded in death by; his parents Margaret and Albert Potts; his mother and
father-in-law, William and Jaclyn Lemke; his brothers Lars and Ron Potts.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 1st, with the visitation from 9:30am -
11:00am with the service to follow at 11:00am at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Almond.
Pastor Dave Ficken will officiate.
A special heartfelt thank you to Hospice for making him so comfortable in his final days.
They helped put the family at ease and reassure us that he wasn’t in any pain at all. The Hardell-Holly Funeral Home of Almond is assisting the family with arrangements.
What’s your fondest memory of Darrel?
What’s a lesson you learned from Darrel?
Share a story where Darrel's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Darrel you’ll never forget.
How did Darrel make you smile?