Anthony E. Potthast, a dignified veteran of the U.S. Army, passed away peacefully at home on February 3, 2022. Tony, as he was known to many, was born January 18, 1934 to Erwin and Ida Potthast (nee Gnaedinger) in Pierron, IL.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Norbert (Josie) Potthast, Ernest (Ruth) Potthast, Quintin (Betty) Potthast and Donald (Helen) Potthast; sisters Sr. Mary Agnes Potthast, OSF, and Cornelia (Doyle) Reynolds. Surviving are his wife Ruth Potthast of Fenton, MO; children, Robert (Carolyn Lay) Potthast of Robertsville, MO, Robin Davis of Cincinnati, OH, Anthony (Sara) Potthast II of Litchfield Park, AZ and Julia Reckamp of St. Louis, MO; grandchildren, Lindsay and Justin Davis, Michael Reckamp, Brendan, Delaney and MacKenna Potthast and Colton Potthast; brother, Ferdinand (Joan) Potthast of O’Fallon, MO and brother-in-law Ken (Luci) Bryant of St. Louis, MO; and numerous nieces and nephews.

As a Specialist 5 in the U.S. Army, Tony served our country from 1953 to 1956 and was proud to have been stationed in Korea and the Philippines. After finishing his military service, Tony had a long and successful career in the heavy equipment industry, traveling the world selling Caterpillar tractors.

As a devoted member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Fenton, Tony was very active with the Third and Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, and made lasting memories singing in the choir. Most of all he enjoyed his time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, March 11 at 10 a.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church in Fenton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital or White House Jesuit Retreat.