Dr. Frank John Potter

Dr. Frank “John” Potter, age 77, passed away on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Emerson Hospital in Concord, MA. He was a long-time resident of Nashville, TN, and the devoted husband of 54 years to Kathryn “Kit” Weigl Potter. He was also the proud father of Valerie Helen Friedlander and Megan Ruth Potterbusch and grandfather of Morgan, Tristan, and Shiloh.

Born on September 6, 1948, in Troy, NY, to Frank J Potter and Margaret Jean Rowell, John never had a fixed ambition for what he “wanted to be when he grew up.” Instead, he followed the opportunities life presented through applying his creativity, curiosity, and desire to be of service.

He began his studies at Clarkson College of Technology before serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he specialized in radar repair - eventually teaching it, and then repairing projectors overseas in Vietnam. After returning home, he married his college sweetheart and completed studies at Orange County Community College, later earning a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, a master’s in chemistry, and a Ph.D. in chemical engineering from Vanderbilt University.

Though he chose chemistry over art as a profession, John’s creative spark never dimmed. From cartoons and paintings to woodworking, costume props, and even whimsical “plastic fork creatures,” he was always creating something.

John’s professional path was one of continual reinvention. Over the years, he worked variously as an environmental chemist, technical editor, video editor, teacher, computer technician, and knife sharpener. Looking back, he would say that each chapter built on the last, giving him new skills and insights to carry forward. “When one door closes, another opens,” he’d chuckle and add, “I guess that makes me a great philosopher but a terrible cabinet maker.”

In retirement, John and Kit moved to Frost Farm in Massachusetts to be near family, where he quickly became an integral part of the community, serving as board chair and continuing his “daily smiles” — a ministry of humor and encouragement he began during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Throughout his life, John lived by the guidance of the 12-Steps and Quaker practice, led by a deeply felt moral compass grounded in the philosophical teachings of Taoism.

He made friends everywhere he went and was an amazing example of the difference that can be made in small, meaningful ways by a perfectly imperfect person who is dedicated to always learning, growing, and being of service. With a generous heart, he was a friend to those in need; in need of a laugh, compassion, advice, information, a muffin, a ride, or some change. He was always more than happy to help and often became the “go-to” guy for many, approaching each project with enthusiasm and detailed care. A master of analogies, his advice typically came through a thoughtfully crafted story or comparison, and he never judged - well, maybe sometimes - but he never held onto it. He'd say, "Here's my advice, but do what you want; I know you will anyway."

John lived a life marked by resilience and service. While never financially successful, John was immensely successful in all the ways that really matter in being human. He leaves behind a legacy of wit and wisdom, and the reminder that “sometimes when things seem to be falling apart, they’re actually falling into place.”

John is survived by his wife, Kathryn “Kit” Potter, their daughters Valerie Helen Friedlander (spouse Keith Joseph Friedlander) and Megan Ruth Potterbusch (spouse Kristin Potterbusch). He is also survived by his favorite grandchildren, Morgan, Tristan, and Shiloh, sisters Susan Philips (spouse Lonnie Philips) and Mary Peeso (spouse Jerry Peeso), and his brother David Potter (spouse Karen Potter).

John is buried in the natural burial ground at Highland Cemetery in Montague, MA.

To celebrate his life, there will be an open memorial meeting in the manner of Quakers held at Framingham Friends Meeting on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 1 pm Eastern.

For those who wish to attend services remotely, please contact Valerie at vhpotter21@gmail.com for more information.

To hear more about John’s life in his own words, you can watch his Ignite Talk and listen to his interview on Valerie’s podcast:

Ignite Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9w_dP0qqQ9E&t=2s

Interview: https://unlimited.buzzsprout.com/1479082/episodes/13120738-resilience-through-unexpected-career-shifts-with-f-john-potter

Arrangements under the care of Concord Funeral Home, 74 Belknap Street, Concord, MA 01742 978-369-3388 www.concordfuneral.com