Gerard "Potsy" J. Potvin

Gerard J. “Potsy” Potvin, Jr. passed away on November 17, 2024, at Harmony House in Chicopee, surrounded by his friends, family, and wonderful caregivers. Jerry was born on August 16, 1946 to the late Rita and Gerard Potvin of Chicopee. He was predeceased by his wife, Donna Brochu, whom he married in 1992. The two shared 17 joyful and adventurous years together.

Jerry attended Holy Name School and graduated from Chicopee High School. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for four years. Jerry had a strong work ethic, a 26-year career as a telephone switching technician at New England Telephone Company (now Verizon), where he also had the good fortune of meeting Donna. Jerry and Donna shared a passion for scuba diving which took them on adventures as far as the Cayman Islands, Bonaire, and Cozumel—and as close to home as their summers spent on Spofford Lake, NH.

An active member of his community, Jerry was a member of the Fairview Sportsman Trap Club as well as a former member of the Dan Kane Singers. Before losing his eyesight, he was an avid reader, later adapting to enjoy audiobooks. He was a devoted sports enthusiast and lifelong Red Sox fan. Jerry loved golfing, where his knack for lucky putting earned him the nickname “The Blade” among his golfing buddies.

Jerry is survived by his brother, Robert P. Potvin of Virginia; his niece, Jennifer Kuivinen (Rob); great-niece, Lily; and great-nephew, Collin Gerard. He also leaves behind his brothers-in-law, Tom Brochu, Steve Brochu, and David Brochu, sisters-in-law, Debbie Moriarty (Tim) and Jenna Schraffa (Joe), as well as nephews Tyler and Kyle.

For the past 15 years, Jerry shared life with his companion, Nancy Jamrog. On their pontoon boat at Mitch’s Marina, they were affectionately known as “The Two Amigos.” Jerry and Nancy golfed weekly, loved going to the movies, and were always driving someplace in search of the best burgers and ice cream. Through their friendship, Nancy’s family became Jerry’s extended family, including daughters Amy Jamrog (Kim) and Nicki Jamrog, and two special “grandkids,” BB Henry and Charlie McQuaid (Kendra).

Potsy’s life was filled with the love of close friends, including his very best friend, Austin Kenefick, who predeceased him by only two weeks.

Remembered for his animated storytelling, spot-on impersonations, and infectious laugh, Jerry was humble and generous. He was a proud Friend of Bill for 14 years, and shared his warmth and wisdom with everyone around him.

Special gratitude goes to the emergency department and the 3rd/4th floor staff at Holyoke Medical Center, to the VA in Leeds, to all the caregivers from Kind Hands Care at Home, to the Hospice Life Care of Holyoke team, and to the extraordinary staff and volunteers at Harmony House in Chicopee. It was at Harmony House where Jerry got to live his final days with dignity, love, and unlimited Friendly’s butter crunch ice cream.

Calling hours will be Friday from 2:00-3:30pm at Beers & Story Funeral Home in South Hadley, followed by a memorial service with military honors at 3:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Harmony House, 66 View Street, Chicopee, MA 01020.