Herbert Leroy “Lee” Potter

Herbert Leroy “Lee” Potter

3/20/1929 – 10/04/2021

My grandparents, Lillian (Seccombe) and Walter Potter, migrated from England to start a life here as farmers. My father was born March 20, 1929, on a farm in LaSalle County. Farm life instilled a love for the outdoors, as well as a love for all animals and birds. He would spend as much time as he could outside. His family moved to Elgin when he was still young. This gave him the opportunity to start playing sports in grade school. Even though he played basketball his favorite was baseball. “Go Cubbies.” As an adult he loved playing so much that he joined the Eagles Club to play on their team. Of course, it had nothing to do with the cheap beer. Dad remained a member of the Eagles for 72 years. He had the honor of being the longest tenured member in his Aerie.

He was drafted into the Korean War in 1951, where he served in the Army and became a Purple Heart veteran. Shrapnel resided within him from that point on. While recuperating in Japan, he discovered the best fried oysters he ever had. That’s the only time he ever gained weight. When he returned to active duty Dad was chosen and served in the honor guard until he was honorably discharged.

Whatever restaurant we tried through the years, if they offered fried oysters, he would order them in hopes they would be as good. He searched donut shops as well, trying to find that one that would rival his mother’s homemade cake donuts. Unfortunately, he never found an oyster or donut that could pass the test.

After returning home from Korea he married my mother “Jo” (Droz) in 1955. She became handicapped and was in a wheelchair for over 26 years. So many people would comment on what a saint and angel my dad was. He lovingly took care of my mom for 30-some years while working full time. He started work for the City of Elgin as a laborer in the Public Works department and worked his way up to superintendent of sewer and water construction. He was an employee of the city for 33 years. He was a member of American Legion Post 57 in Elgin.

Dad had one other hobby he loved and that was fishing. We won’t mention the time he and I spent a whole week catching earthworms to use as bait on our summer vacation. The first day we got to the creek I tripped and dumped the whole basket of worms in the creek. After that, I’m surprised he always asked me to go with him, but not before he told me not to dump the worms. This was one of many things my dad taught me.

After my mom passed in 2001, I was very fortunate to spend many years traveling, going on adventures and just enjoying my dad’s company. He was not only my father but also became my best friend. Dad passed away on Oct. 4, 2021, from natural causes. I will miss him immensely, but he has left me with so many wonderful memories to draw upon. Thanks, Dad! I will love you always! ~ Nancy