On May 22, 2013, Donald Joseph Ross Potts (87) of Wilmington, NC, died peacefully at Lower Cape Fear Hospice after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Gertrude Mae (Gertie), as well as daughters Donna Jean Schmetterer (husband, Richard) of Wilmington; Carol Anne Adam (husband, Adrien III) of East Windsor, CT and two grandchildren, Tracy Schmetterer and Adrien Adam IV.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, on August 21, 1925, Don was raised in Brantford, Ontario, by his paternal grandparents. In 1964, Don and Gertie moved to New City, New York, where he began his very successful career in financial systems management (V.P. Finance), working for such prestigious firms as General Foods, Union Carbide and Royal Typewriter. At age 16, he joined the International Brotherhood of Magicians, one of the youngest members to ever join. In 2002, the IBM inducted him into the elite society of the “Order of Merlin”, for his 60 years of continuous support of the IBM. He pursued his hobby in magic until just recently, still being a member of the local Wilmington magic club, having served as President at one time. He also served as the first President of the Willoughby Park Homeowner’s Association. Other club affiliations include Mensa, the Masons, Scottish Rite and the Jesters.
Family will receive visitors at Coble Ward-Smith Funeral Service on Sunday, May 26, 2013 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Continuous fellowship will follow after 5 at Donna’s home.
The staff of Coble Ward-Smith is honored to serve the family of Donald Joseph Ross Potts.
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