Richard Alan Potts Obituary (2023)

Richard was born April 18, 1960, in Toppenish. He grew up as the eighth of nine children in Wiley City, as well as a huge extended family and eventual lifelong friends. Family was always his greatest joy. A yard full of kids, a barbeque, and a variety of cars, trucks, and motor"sickles" put the best smiles on his face. Richard joined the Air Force as soon as he was able, following his big brother, Billy, into the military. After the Air Force, he earned a welding certificate from Columbia Basin College, which began a long and adventurous career in all things mechanical. He furthered his education at JM Perry, graduating in 1993 from their HVAC program. After a brief stint at Wade Electric, he went to work for Bill & Kris Ash at Central Heating & Plumbing, where he stayed until his retirement in June 2022. Richard and Christine met in 1989, becoming a couple in November of 1990. They wed at Mullins Cherry Orchard, in May of 1997, together raising their beautifully large, blended family. Richard was the best girl dad, raising six beautiful daughters and father to his one handsome son. Richards greatest accomplishment was never what he did, but who he raised, the knowledge he shared and the hearts he touched. Not one of his children ever had to question his love or pride for them. A lifetime of camping trips, Fourth of July blowouts, insane McDonalds drive-thru visits, ABATE Spring Openers, Sturgis trips, floating the river, and so many more wonderful times just around the dinner table. Would anyone like Cool Whip on their mashed potatoes? Ahtanum Meadows will forever hold a place in the heart of his wife and kids, and a shot of tequila will never taste the same without Papa in the room. Richard is preceded in death by his mother; June, brother; James, and brother; Billy. Richard is survived by his daughters; Christie (Dale), Rachell (Gordon), Desiree (Justin), Heather (Jay), Cara (Shane) and CourtNIE (Shawn) and his son, Shawn (Courtney), his wife; Christine and his beloved mother-in-law; Jo-Ann McMillan, 20 grandchildren, spanning 23 years to 19 months, and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings; Carol (Orland), Johnny (Debbie), Ann, Mary (Mike), Carolanne and Roger, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Richards life will be celebrated with a small(ish) Graveside Service at West Hills Memorial Park, on Friday, July 7, 2023, at 11:00am, with a Potluck Reception immediately following, at West Valley Community Park. Papa liked to be comfortable, so please dress casually. In lieu of flowers, please make any donations in remembrance to your favorite veteran organization and sent in care of Brookside Funeral Home (P.O. Box 1267, Moxee, WA 98936), who is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com. Reception West Valley Community Park Wednesday, June 7, 2023 1323 S 80th Ave Yakima, WA 98908 Potluck Reception immediately following.