Ronald Lurethette Potter, 80, of Lehi, Utah, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away from a stroke on Friday, May 29, 2026.

Ron was born on August 22, 1945, to Orval Delano Potter and Ivy Jeffs Potter. He grew up in American Fork, Utah, where he attended school and built the foundation for a life defined by hard work, family, and friendship.

Ron met and married JoAnn Draper of Lehi, Utah, the love of his life. Together they became the proud parents of six children. Although they later divorced, they remained the best of friends throughout their lives.

A true jack-of-all-trades, Ron was known for his strong work ethic and his ability to fix or build just about anything. Throughout his life, he worked for many different companies, always eager to learn something new. He was an exceptional mechanic and worked at Geneva Steel before finishing his career at Mellor Engineering, where he retired.

Ron loved spending time outdoors. Fishing, boating, golfing, camping, and most importantly, being with family brought him great joy. He especially treasured time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Perhaps Ron's greatest companion was his beloved German Husky, Rocky. He took Rocky everywhere and spoiled him endlessly. Rocky was more than a pet—he was Ron's best friend. After Rocky passed away in August 2025, Ron never fully recovered from the loss. He missed him deeply and spoke of him every day.

Dad's most powerful set of accomplishments, was after years of drinking, dad quit in 2004—a change that takes a tremendous amount of determination and persistence. Then, after 60 years of smoking, something he really wanted to accomplish and something many people never manage to do: he quit smoking as well. The fact that stopping smoking was one of his biggest goals this past year and that he achieved it makes that accomplishment especially meaningful.

His determination and strength were an inspiration to everyone who knew him.

Ron will be remembered for his love of family, his infectious laugh, and his famous swivel-hip dancing. He took tremendous pride in his yard, which was always meticulously cared for. Nothing made him happier than hearing neighbors compliment how beautiful it looked. He also loved visiting with people as they walked by his home with their dogs. Missing Rocky so much, Ron found comfort in petting and loving the neighborhood dogs. Some owners even began stopping by regularly—or knocking on his door—just so he could spend time with their pets.

Even during his final illness, Ron's joyful spirit never faded. He danced with every nurse and therapist who cared for him in the hospital and rehabilitation center, leaving each one smiling as they walked out of the room.

Ron is survived by the love of his life and best friend, JoAnn Draper Herbert; his children, Annette (Corey) Rohletter, Kimberly (Shane) Julian, Kelli (Mark) Thomas, Shelli Potter, Brandon (Heidi) Potter, Shawn (Mandy) Chamberlain, Nickolas (Stephanie) Potter, and Jason (Kacey) Potter; 40 grandchildren; 55 great-grandchildren; and his soon-to-arrive first great-great-grandchild. He is also survived by his sisters, Charlotte Turner and Pat Loveless.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Dennis L. Potter; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his sister, Arlene (Lionel) Evans; his brother, Orval D. Potter Jr.; and his brothers-in-law, Jesse Turner and Doug Loveless.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at St. Mark's Hospital, Holy Cross Hospital, and Point Meadows Rehabilitation Center. Their kindness, compassion, and loving care meant so much to Ron and his family.

Funeral Services

A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Lehi Cemetery, 1100 North 400 East, Lehi, Utah 84043.

Dad will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his laughter, kindness, and love for family will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.