Richard Lee Potter
Obituary

Richard Lee Potter (Ricky) was born on January 11, 1963, to Marvin Potter and Janet Penn Potter. From the very beginning, Rick brought a bright spirit and a boundless curiosity to the world, forever leaving a mark on those around him.

Rick’s love for music and the ocean was matched only by his adventurous heart. He spent countless days of his childhood surfing along the California coastline, laughing with friends and family, and exploring the mysteries of the world around him. Rick was endlessly curious, always eager to learn how things worked, often taking apart radios, toys, or anything he could get his hands on, much to the amusement of his loved ones.

Rick’s family was the center of his universe. He first married Leslie Lehrack, and together they welcomed two beautiful daughters, Nicole Thompson and Chelsie Shields.

Later, while living in Texas, Rick met and fell in love with Daphne Stout. Together they welcomed two sons, Ethan Niles Potter and Seth Alexander Potter. Rick treasured every moment with Ethan and Seth, from cheering them on at baseball games to building model aircraft and assembling computers together. These cherished memories will remain with them forever.

Rick loved all four of his children deeply and always sought to fill their lives with love, laughter, and music.

Rick’s passion for learning never faded, and he poured himself into the robotics industry, where he quickly became an expert and mentor to many. Yet, it was his warmth and generosity that truly set him apart. Whether strumming a guitar for family and friends or sharing a story, Rick brought joy wherever he went. He was the life of every gathering, and his infectious laughter and kindness made him a friend to everyone he met.

Rick passed away on July 16, 2026, leaving behind memories filled with love, laughter, and music.

Rick passed away at Huntington Beach Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family. Honoring his wishes, Rick will be cremated, and his ashes will be gently spread at Laguna Beach, California, in a private ceremony. In this way, he will be returned to the ocean he cherished, forever a part of the waves and sunsets he loved so dearly.

Rick is survived by his nine grandchildren (Dylan, Emily, Scarlett, Alexandra and Ash Phillips, Enzo and Lucio Thompson, McCoy and Bree Shields), four children Nicole Thompson, Chelsie Shields, Ethan Niles Potter and Seth Alexander Potter, six siblings Marvin Potter, Theresa Laven, Catherine Jacobson, James Potter, Frank Pacheco and Larry Ruckman, and his parents Marvin Potter, Janet Penn Oliver, and stepmother Suzanne Potter.