Austin Potthoff

Austin Keith Potthoff, 18, died Wednesday, June 18, 2014 in Hesperus, Colorado. A Celebration of Austin’s life and influence will be Monday, June 23, 2014 at 3:00 P.M. at the Pine Valley Church in Bayfield. Burial will follow at Pine River Cemetery in Bayfield. Austin was born November 24, 1995 in Durango, Colorado. He grew up in and attended schools in Durango through his 9th grade year when the family moved to Bayfield. Austin is a gifted craftsman in woodworking, creating art and gifts for his family. Overcoming many obstacles, he persevered and reached his goal of graduating this May from Bayfield High School, Class of 2014. Austin had an extreme love for the outdoors. Missionary Ridge was his stomping grounds. His mechanical mind led him to dis-assemble and work on projects, though he didn’t always get‘em back together just right. He adores his family and siblings. He is extremely proud of his brothers, Alec and Ryan, for their current military service, as well as his family history in serving their country in the U.S. Military. He is defined and remembered by his infectious grin and dimples. He is survived by his parents: Barrett and Amy Potthoff of Bayfield, and Zac Palmer (spouse: Tiffany) of Las Lunas, N.M., brothers and sisters: Alec Potthoff (spouse: Jordan) stationed at Ft. Bliss, Tex., Ryan Mears (spouse: Aubree) stationed at Ft. Riley, Ks., Silvia and Kimberlyn Palmer of Las Lunas, Emily and Lainey Potthoff of Bayfield, Grandparents: Bob and Sandy Hedges of Durango, Joe and Yvette Potthoff of Bayfield, and Perry and Darlene Palmer of Ignacio, his cousin and “stand-in brother”, Christopher Hedges of Red Mesa, Colo., and numerous extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his great-grandmother, Verna Towne, and an uncle, Jeff Davis. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions in Austin’s name to Durango Blue Star Mothers, C/O Paige Ludwig, P.O. Box 1025, Bayfield, Colorado 81122.