Katsuko Ito Potter

Katie as family and friends knew her, was born on August 15, 1928, in Tokyo, Japan the oldest of five daughters. After marrying a soldier she came to the United States in 1950 where they made a home in Spanish Harlem, New York. They moved to the Monterey Peninsula arriving at Fort Ord in 1960. She lived in Marina and Seaside, and resided in Pacific Grove, CA for the past 40 years. Katie became a single mother in 1963 at times she worked three jobs to raise her children. She began her culinary career washing dishes at the Copenhagen restaurant in Monterey and left as a Sous Chef, to become a Chef at well-known restaurants in Carmel, CA, (Pernille's, Simpson's and June Simpson's). Katie worked hard and achieved her dream of becoming a successful restaurateur. She owned and operated the Monarch Restaurant in Pacific Grove, CA for over 20 years, which was known for it’s home-style cooking and delicious desserts. Working 10 to 12 hours a day, six days a week, she enjoyed cooking from the heart and mentoring those who worked for her over the years. She retired comfortably at the age of 68, pursing her second passion in life creating and enjoying beautiful gardens. She put her energy in growing an abundance of beautiful plants that were so vibrant in color and blooms. After months of hard work, she would cry sometimes when the deer would eat the buds of flowers that were ready to blossom. At the age of 70, Katie began Jazzercise where she made many friends while attending five to six days a week for over ten years. She took immense gratification in her dedication and physical stamina.

Anyone that knew Katie would describe her as independent, resilient, generous, and a loving woman, someone who took pride in her ability to accomplish her goals with determination and commitment, helping many along the way. Katie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and a faithful sister. She loved her family deeply and was proud of all of their accomplishments. Katie left a legacy of hard work and the importance of perseverance.

Katie is survived by her children, Rita Cummings-Oglesby (Ian) of Seaside, CA, Pedro Arroyo (Juliana) of Marina, CA, Paul Arroyo (Grace) of Elk Grove, CA, her grandchildren Jozen Cummings of Harlem, NY, Christine Blais of San Diego, CA, Paul Arroyo Jr. of Seaside, CA, DJ Galiste of Soledad, CA, Melissa Cummings of Seaside, CA, Katie Arroyo of San Francisco CA, Kevin Arroyo of Marina CA, Justin Galiste of Oakland, CA, Ashley Arroyo of Marina, CA, Jeff Arroyo Jr. (Shameika Moody) of Castro Valley, CA, great grandchildren, Armoni V. McKnight, Paul M. Arroyo and Zoe Y. Blais who was born the day prior to Katie’s passing, and sisters, Shineko, Shigeko, Toshiko and nieces of Japan.

Katie is also survived by her step children Dave (Teresa) Potter of Pueblo, CO, Norman Potter of Mesa, AZ, Jeff (Candy) Potter of Gilbert, AZ, Robert Potter of Winslow, AZ, their children; and nieces, nephews, and her beloved dogs “Daisy” and “Nicki”.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Doyle M. Potter, son Jeff L. Arroyo, stepdaughter Sharon Davis, her parents and sister Eiko of Japan.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Eikenberry, Dr. Carver, Dr. Issvoran, the staff at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula and Carmel Hills Care Center. We extend a special thanks and deep gratitude to her home heath-caregiver and companion Velinda Mathews.