Thomas M. Potter

Thomas Potter

Thomas M. Potter, Jr., 58, of Gilboa passed away unexpectedly on March 24, 2017. Tom was the beloved husband of Karen Summersgill Potter and devoted father of Phoebe (Hank Rosen), Laura, and Brett. He was born in Walnut Creek, CA on July 29, 1958. It was here that he developed his life long love of sports, particularly skiing at Squaw Valley. Early on, Tom’s family moved to the Pittsburgh, PA area. He became an avid fan and supporter of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Pittsburgh Penguins. He attended Sewickley Academy, where he played soccer. Throughout college and the years after, he nurtured his many interests including sports, music, art, and photography. He played in a jazz band and worked as a photographer. Tom moved to New York City, opened an art gallery in Soho, married Nancy Howell and Phoebe was born. After separating from Nancy, he moved to the Hunter, NY area. He began ski patrolling at Hunter Mountain, where he met Karen. They married and after the birth of Laura and Brett, eventually settled in Gilboa, NY. Tom pursued his passion for soccer by playing on various leagues in the Albany area and coaching and mentoring young athletes at Gilboa-Conesville Central School. He was also an avid golfer, particularly enjoying the camaraderie of the game. A deeply dedicated father, Tom made a point of attending every one of his children’s games from grade school through college. Tom always remained committed to the communities in which he lived and worked. This commitment extended to his work at The Naccarato Insurance Company.

Tom was predeceased by his mother Diane King Potter. In addition to his wife and children, Tom is survived by his father, Thomas M. Potter, Sr. (Jebby); his sisters, Tracy and Elizabeth (Jeff Hall); his niece Tori and nephews Ogden and Ethan; as well many friends, associates, and clients.

Tom lived an inspired life, always seeking new experiences and adventures. Tom and Karen spent their 25 year marriage traveling and exploring the world together. Tom will be remembered as a man who lived with passion, enthusiasm, and a great sense of fun.

Visitation will be Tuesday, March 28, 2017 from 2-4 pm and 5-7 pm at the Aston-Basagic Funeral Home in Hunter, NY. A reception will be held at the Prattsville Art Center on Main Street in Prattsville, NY from 7-10 pm with the family joining at 8. Flowers are appreciated, and donations may be made in Tom’s name to the Prattsville Art Center, where we have established a memorial fund dedicated to connecting our youth with music lessons and other opportunities to pursue their creative passions (visit www.prattsvilleart.org/support-us).