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John "Drew" Potts

March 27, 1963 - March 14, 2025

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Obituary For John "Drew" Potts

Potts, John "Drew", age 61, of Pittsburgh, passed away on March 14, 2025, after a long struggle with frontal temporal dementia. Loving husband of Lori Potts; dedicated father of Erik, Shane, Brian, Mike (Marla), Dan (Danielle) and Melanie (Ryan); Fozzie of Scottie, Bodhi, Dale, Atticus and Tessa; son of Shirley (the late Jack) Potts; brother of Tammy Goebel.

Born in Lancaster, PA and later moved to Clark’s Summit, PA, Drew attended Abbington Heights high school. He then went on to attend the Pennsylvania State University where he majored in engineering, specializing in mining. After graduating, he began his career with the US Bureau of Mines conducting research in dust exposure assessments and controls for surface, continuous and longwall mining operations. At this time, he completed his master’s degree from Carnegie Mellon University – Tepper School of Business. Drew then went to PNC Bank as a lender to coal, gas, and utilities industries. He also owned a Ziebart in Youngstown, OH before returning to government work at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health holding multiple positions as a research mining engineer, team leader, branch chief and senior scientist. Although somewhat introverted, Drew’s intelligence permeated throughout any conversation you would have with him, providing wisdom and often humor to any situation. As a scientist, Drew devoted his career to improving the lives and longevity of the men and women who serve to power our country, the country Drew loved.

His personal life was also exemplary as a father and husband. Together with Lori, he raised 6 children in a quiet, gentle way that never overstepped but always provided. Drew loved to have fun, drink a few beers, play on an over 40 soccer team, ride his Harley, relax on his boat and hang out with family and friends. His strong sense of moral clarity was something he made sure to personify in the interactions he had, not only with family and friends, but also with strangers.

Drew never cared for drawing attention to himself in large social gatherings, so a private service will be held with family. Thank you to John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc., for caring for Drew’s earthly body. “So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.” – John 16:22

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Tributes

  • 10 TREES

    Yi Zheng planted 10 trees in memory of John "Drew" Potts . - March 18, 2025

Condolences

  • March 20, 2025

    Tawnda Lynn

    Lori, and family.. so very sorry to hear of your loss, I pray that in this time of sorrow it eventually brings on peace and comfort in the days ahead and that my prayers are answered in that love of family allows memories of joy and comfort. Deepest sympathy , Tawnda Szallar. And family.

  • March 20, 2025

    Chris ireland

    I first had the pleasure of meeting you in 1986 at an apartment complex we worth both living at the time you were outside in the parking lot I said hello or something about your motorcycle caught your attention and we became friends so many good times was stunned to hear of your passing may the road forever rise up to meet you,may the wind always be at your back,may the sun always shine warm upon your face, and until we meet again may god hold you in the palm of his hand -Chris ireland

  • March 18, 2025

    Stephanie Iuni

    My deepest sympathies to you and your family.

  • March 18, 2025

    David Zheng

    I am deeply saddened and shocked by the news of Drew's passing. Drew was an exceptional leader and researcher, always bringing forward new ideas and challenging me to test them through simulations. His unwavering passion for protecting mine workers from health risks was truly inspiring. His most recent design—the vertical air-blocking ring for surface mine drillers—proved remarkably effective in both computer simulations and laboratory tests, offering significant promise for preventing black lung and silicosis. Drew's dedication and impact will be profoundly missed by his colleagues and miners across the nation. He will also be deeply missed by me and my family. — David Zheng