William J. Potvin, 71, a retired sales representative with Fluid Air Products of Willowbrook, died Wednesday, May 31, in his Elmhurst home. Born in Pittsburgh, Pa., Mr. Potvin was a longtime resident of Elmhurst. He was trained as an electrical engineer at Marquette University, where he received his undergraduate degree. He enjoyed golf, his grandchildren and was a masterful gin player, said his son, Brian Potvin. “He was a compassionate man who truly helped his fellow man and neighbors,” his son said. Mr. Potvin served in the Navy and spent 45 years with Fluid Air Products. He was a life-member of Father McDonald Council 1911 of the Knights of Columbus, a member of Elmhurst T.H.B. Post 187 and a 12-year member of Elmhurst B.P.O. Elks Lodge 1531. Mr. Potvin is also survived by two other sons, William and Thomas; three daughters, Kathryn Craven, Susan Colby and Lisa Rudolph; 11 grandchildren; and two sisters, Mary Jean Sauls and Pat Fox. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday in The Ahlgrim Funeral Home, 567 S. Spring Rd., Elmhurst. Services will be at 9 a.m. Saturday with mass at 9:30 a.m. in Visitation Catholic Church, 779 S. York St., Elmhurst.
