Terry Lee Potter – loving father, loyal friend, and avid adventurer – passed away peacefully after a long battle with ALS at The Terraces in Boise, ID on Thursday, July 20, 2023.
Terry was born to Alverna and Edward Potter in Columbus, OH on February 13, 1952. He graduated from Bishop Ready High School in 1970. After briefly attending Ohio State University, Terry found his calling as a bricklayer and became deeply respected in the profession. His skill as a bricklayer allowed him to travel wherever he wanted and make a name for himself.
Terry’s true passion, however, was fishing. He spent much of his life chasing marlin and sailfish in oceans ranging from South America to Australia and everywhere in between. His life’s mission culminated in completing the Royal Slam by catching a Spearfish in Kona, HI on March 1, 2012. A few days later, he received an added “gift from God” as he would say, when he caught his first “Grander” – a blue marlin that weighed approximately 1,200 lbs.
After completing his sport fishing dreams, Terry set his sights on fly fishing the rivers in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and even in Florida. He found solace in the peaceful waters and welcomed the new challenge. He would tell you that his best days were spent wading in a rippling river with his dog, Marlie, waiting on the bank for her chance to inspect his next catch.
Terry is survived by his daughter, Stephanie; his brothers, John and Dan; his first wife, Rita; his second wife and Stephanie’s mother, Virginia; and his many loving friends and family members. Terry is preceded in death by his mother, Alverna; his father, Edward; and his brother, Skip.
Terry lost his battle with ALS after a long and grueling 16 months. His family wishes to extend a special thank you to his dedicated medical staff, the ALS Association Evergreen Chapter, the compassionate assisted living staff at The Terraces of Boise, and St. Luke’s Hospice, all of whom stuck with Terry and his daughter Stephanie throughout even the most challenging moments.
Please join Terry’s family in remembering him: Visitation, Viewing, and Rosary at Bowman’s Funeral Parlor – Monday, July 31 from 6:00 to 7:30 pm (10254 W Carlton Bay Dr, Boise, ID) Memorial Mass at St. John’s Catholic Church – Tuesday, August 1 at 10:00 am (807 N 8th St, Boise, ID)