Richard G. Potempa

Richard "Rich" Potempa, age 90, was born on April 3, 1936, to August and Marie Potempa and was their eldest son. He met the love of his life, Arlene Sabaj, and they were married in 1957. Rich and Arlene shared an extraordinary marriage built on love, devotion, and friendship. They were truly inseparable and were each other's best friend—a kind of partnership many only dream of having.

Together they enjoyed gambling, traveling to Las Vegas, golfing, and participating in several bowling leagues. They raised four daughters and built a life centered on family, love, and laughter. After Arlene's passing in 2021, their daughters lovingly helped their dad navigate life without his lifelong partner.

Rich dedicated many years to working in the family business, Belmont Cabinet Company. In 1978, he and Arlene fulfilled their dream of owning a business by opening Mower Craft, a small engine repair and sales shop specializing in lawn and snow equipment. Together, they built and successfully operated the business for nearly 25 years, earning the trust, loyalty, and friendship of countless customers through their hard work, dedication, and commitment to quality service.

Rich and Arlene lived in Chicago during the early years of their marriage before moving to Park Ridge in 1980, where they made their home for the next 40 years. In 2019, they moved to Huntley. Following Arlene's passing, Rich found comfort in the many activities and friendships he developed at Del Webb Sun City Huntley, especially with his friends in the Pinochle Card Club, whose companionship brought him joy and support.

Rich was a lifelong, die-hard Chicago White Sox fan, standing by his team through every triumph and disappointment. He was also a devoted Las Vegas Raiders fan.

During the past few months, Rich proved to be a true warrior, repeatedly overcoming incredible medical challenges with remarkable strength and determination. His greatest wish was simply to return home. Though he ultimately lost his final battle, he never lost his fighting spirit, inspiring his family with his courage and resilience until the very end.

Above all, Rich was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his four daughters: Debbie (Gene) Walega, Laurie (Mark) Walter, Susan (Bill) Stephens, and Lisa (Jim) Montori. He was the proud "Poppi" to his ten grandchildren: Dana (Mike) Murphy, Allyson Stephens, Jake (Amanda) Fiebelkorn, Samantha (Josh) Tobin, E.J. Walega, Tyler Stephens, Zachary Montori, Sabrina Walega, Brock Montori, and Layne Stephens. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Rowan Murphy, Cameron Tobin and Declan Murphy.

Rich was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Arlene Potempa; his parents, August and Marie Potempa; and his siblings, Arlene Shelton and Leonard Potempa.

Rich will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his strong work ethic, his loyal friendships, and the many lives he touched with his kindness, humor, and generous spirit. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friends he made throughout his life, and the countless memories that will forever be held close to the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Visitation, Wednesday, July 8, 9:00 a.m. until the time of Closing Prayers, 10:45 a.m., Kolbus-John V. May Funeral Home, 6857 W. Higgins Ave. Chicago, IL 60656, Mass of Christian Burial, 11:30 a.m., Mary, Seat of Wisdom Church, 920 Granville Ave. Park Ridge, IL 60068. Entombemnt will follow at St. Adalbert Cemetery (Mary, Mother of God Mausoleum), Niles, IL.

For information, 773-774-3232.