Daniel Richard Potopsky Sr. 88, of North Royalton; was called home to his Heavenly Father on June 27th. 2022. He was a beloved husband of 65 vears to Patricia M. Potopsky (Gauntner); a beloved father of Daniel Jr. (Holly), David (Kimberly), Susan, Robert (Laura), Patrick (Lisa); a cherished grandfather of Daniel (Jennette), Matthew, Brittany (Ron), Kali, Shawnn (Natalie), Logan, Lauren, Alexis, Landon; and a great grandfather of Noelle. He was preceded in death by his parents Olive and Henry Potopsky, brother Michael and sister Rose.
Dan was a devoted educator of 36 years and a lifelong coach and official. More importantly, he was a husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, cousin, and a loyal friend. His passion for sports started early at Independence High School where he earned multiple sports letters as well as won All Ohio in basketball and track. He was inducted into the Independence Hall of Fame in 1988 as well as having the Dan Potopsky Invitational track meet named after him.
Dan pursued a bachelor’s in education at Kent State University as well as a master’s at Akron University. While being a Golden Flash he had an amazing athletic career, earning a total of seven varsity letters in baseball and basketball and still holds the most single game scoring record of 49 points, he was inducted into the Kent State Hall of Fame in 1980.
In his free time, he enjoyed golfing with his family and friends, taking his grandchildren to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, getting ice cream after Little League Games at Loder’s Shake Shoppe, along with playing cards and getting coffee with his two best buddies Al and Clyde.
He will be greatly missed by his friends, family, and those who had the privilege of calling him “coach.” His legacy of being a hardworking, family man that just wanted everyone to excel, will continue to live on in every heart he touched. Visitation hours will be on July 6th from 3:00 pm-7:00 pm at The A. Ripepi & Sons Funeral Home 18149 Bagley Rd. Middleburg Heights, OH 44130.
Service will be held July 7th at St. Albert the Great in North Royalton at 11:30 am. (Meet at the church). There will be a luncheon following the service at the Brew Garden 18590 Bagley Rd, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
Memorial contributions may be made to the Villa Maria Sisters of the Humility of Mary, P.O. Box 534, Villa Maria, PA 16155 or St. Albert the Great (John Vial Tuition Fund) in North Royalton
