Michael Potoma

Michael Potoma, Newport Beach, CA, has passed away at age 91. He is survived by his beloved wife Evelyn, daughters Lori Wright and husband Gary and Jayne Braga and husband Matthew, son Jeffrey Potoma and wife Brenda, grandchildren Scott and Brooke Braga and Courtney and Eric Wright, sister Ann Evanchak.

Raised in McKeesport, PA, Mike entered the U.S. Army in 1943 and was one of two of 200 applicants in his unit to pass the Air Force exams. He wore the silver wings of a Second Lieutenant B-17 pilot during World War II. Mike married Evelyn in 1947 and moved to southern CA in 1961. He was an entrepreneur and a restaurateur, establishing the renowned Tastee Freez at 19th and Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach. Known for his incredible generosity, charming sense of humor, and devotion to his family, Mike will be sincerely missed.

Services will be held at St. Joachim’s Catholic Church, Costa Mesa on Wed, Aug 19, 11:00 am. A private burial honoring his military service will be held at Riverside National Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Michael can be made to Orange County Rescue Mission:

https://www.rescuemission.org/donate/

Please follow prompts and select "In Memory of" "Memorial Name" "Send Letter" "Send an e-card" email address is: [email protected]