January 20, 1921 - March 26, 2009
Francis (Frank) H. Potter Obituary
On March 26, 2009 the good Lord tapped Col. Francis H. Potter (Frank) on the shoulder and said, "Come on home with me, let's end this battle with cancer," thus ending this earthly life of a devoted husband and father. Frank was born January 20, 1921 in Nashville, IL to Henry and Effie Potter the second of four children. He graduated from high school at Ashley, IL in 1938. He and June Gurney married in St. Louis, MO in 1940. Frank entered the Army Air Corps in 1943, graduated from flying school in 1945 and commissioned a 2nd Lt. He had a long and interesting flying career, with opportunities to see much of the world. Some highlights are: instructing French cadets and receiving honorary French pilot wings; flying food and supplies into Berlin Germany, during the airlift of 1948-1949; qualifying to deliver atomic weapons and being certified for "Bomb Commander" status. He had one flight around the world and piloted many of the military's heavy bombers. He commanded the 325th B-52 Bomb Squadron at Fairchild during the cold war era of 1963-1964 and later was deputy Base Commander at Minot, AFB, ND and Fairchild AFB, in Spokane where he retired in September 1969. After retirement he and June traveled and enjoyed many countries. Frank was an active member of the Inland Northwest Wildlife Council for many years. He and June wrote a monthly "outdoor" article enjoyed by members for fifteen years. He also instructed in excess of 20 years in the states' Hunter Education and Gun Safety program. He volunteered for twenty plus years with the Red Cross working at Fairchild's refill pharmacy. He has served on the local board of directors of the Military Officers Association of America for several years. Frank is survived by his wife of 69 years, his daughter Donna Phillips of Spokane, sons David of Klamath Falls, Douglas of Coeur d'Alene, ID. He also leaves eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. The family wishes to thank Melissa Weidmer, Karri Kenison and Trina Popens of the Spokane Hospice service for their compassionate and helpful care during this difficult time. A memorial service will be held at Dishman Baptist Church, where he was a member, 315 N. Argonne at 10:00AM on April 11, 2009.
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