September 1, 2025

Remembering Robert Potter: A Life of Service and Family

News Summary

Robert (Bob) Potter, a 79-year-old resident of Mission Viejo, passed away after a brave fight against cancer. He is remembered for his dedication to family and friends and his legacy of kindness. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Kilian Church, with options to attend via livestream. Bob’s life was marked by service in the U.S. Air Force, a successful career in the drug industry, and cherished moments spent with his loved ones.

Mission Viejo, California – Robert (Bob) Potter, a 79-year-old resident, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. His family announced that a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on September 11, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Kilian Church in Mission Viejo. The service will be accessible via livestream for those unable to attend in person.

Bob was born on March 6, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Thelma and Arthur Potter. He was raised in Dubuque and graduated from Wahlert High School in 1964. In 1966, he broadened his horizons by enlisting in the U.S. Air Force, where he served in international locations including Korea and the Philippines until his discharge in 1971.

After leaving the military, Bob and his wife, Joyce Heitz, whom he married on November 30, 1968, relocated to Iowa City. He pursued higher education at the University of Iowa, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in business in 1972. Bob began his professional journey with Osco Drug and later moved the family to Marlborough, Massachusetts, where they raised three children: Jeff, Stephanie, and Kristen.

In 1991, Bob accepted a significant position with Osco/Save-On Drugs in California, where he ultimately served as the Vice President of Operations for Southern California until his retirement in 2006. After retirement, he enjoyed a variety of pastimes, including golfing, reading, and traveling with his wife, Joyce, and their friends. However, his deepest fulfillment came from spending quality time with family, especially during their cherished trips together.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Joyce, and their three children: Jeff Potter and his wife Christine, Stephanie Shaffer, and Kristen Gordon and her husband Ben. He was a proud grandfather to his grandchildren: Drew and Danny Potter, Brian Shaffer, and Jake and Sophie Gordon. Bob is also survived by his siblings, Gary Potter (Ann), Joyce Potter, Carol Voelker (Jim), and Ralph Potter (Ann), along with numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his son-in-law Duane in October of the previous year, a loss that deeply affected him as he looked forward to reuniting with him in the afterlife. He is remembered fondly for his integrity, enduring positive attitude, a robust sense of humor, and his iconic full head of hair.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Veteran Emergency Assistance Fund, located at 215 15th St., Newport Beach, CA, 92663.

Bob Potter leaves behind a lasting legacy, impactful memories shared with family and friends, and an impression of kindness and positivity that will be cherished by all who knew him.