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Thomas P. Potter, 70, of Lake City, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of strength, devotion and unconditional love. He was born in Erie, on July 15, 1955, a son of the late Edward and Lenore (Erickson) Potter II.
Tom graduated from Rice Avenue Union High School as part of the class of 1973 and went on to build houses with Potter Brothers Construction. He later worked for Hilbert Company Inc. and joined the Plumbers Union Local 27. He spent the remainder of his career working as a plumber before retiring in 2017. Although we all know he never truly retired, he worked even harder in retirement.
While always a hardworker, Tom will be most remembered for being a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He left a lasting impression on the community through his work, passions and unmistakable presence. He was a loyal Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He enjoyed hunting, going to camp, woodworking, helping others and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was an honorary member of the Cherry Grove VFD and past member of Platea VFD. Tom will be remembered for the life he built with hard work and heart.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by twin daughters, Miranda and Melissa and a brother Bobby.
He will be greatly missed by his family which includes his wife of almost 49 years, Shirley (Hilbert); siblings Ed (Shelly) Potter, Carol (Don) McAleer, David (Jenny) Potter & Peggy Hupp; children; Autumn (Michael) Dewey & Lindsey Harvey and Kyle (Paige) Potter; his grandchildren; Gaige (Monique) Potter, Trinitie (Steven) Shipman, Brookelyn Klimek, Alyzibeth Potter & Logan Potter; great granddaughter Ezra Shipman; special family members; Barb Leber and Emily, Steve, Ashlyn & Hadley Schultz; as well as many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in his memory may be made to Cherry Grove VFD, 6045 Cherry Grove Road, Clarendon PA 16313 or Hope Lodge, 11432 Mayfield Road, Cleveland OH 44106.
Friends may call on Tuesday April 7, 2026 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Edder Family Funeral Home, LLC, 309 Main St. E., Girard. A funeral service will be held there the following day, Wednesday, at 11:00 a.m. Please come as you are, no need to dress up, Tom hated wearing a suit, flannels are encouraged.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas P. Potter, please visit our floral store.
Cherry Grove Volunteer Fire Department
6045 Cherry Grove Road, Clarendon PA 16313
Hope Lodge
11432 Mayfield Road, Cleveland OH 44106