Austin Keith Potthoff, 18, died Wednesday, June 18, 2014 in Hesperus. A celebration of Austin's life and influence was held at 3 p.m. Monday, June 23, 2014 at the Pine Valley Church in Bayfield. Burial followed at Pine River Cemetery in Bayfield.
Austin was born Nov. 24, 1995 in Durango. He grew up in and attended schools in Durango through ninth grade, when the family moved to Bayfield. Austin was a gifted craftsman in woodworking, creating art and gifts for his family. Overcoming many obstacles, he persevered and graduated this May from Bayfield High School in the Class of 2014.
Austin had a love for the outdoors. Missionary Ridge was his stomping grounds. His mechanical mind led him to disassemble and work on projects, though he didn't always get them back together just right.
He adored his family and siblings and was 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 remembered for his infectious grin and dimples.
He is survived by his parents, Barrett and Amy Potthoff of Bayfield, and Zac Palmer and his spouse, Tiffany of Las Lunas, N.M.; his brothers and sisters and their spouses, Alec and Jordan Potthoff stationed at Ft. Bliss, Texas, Ryan and Aubree Mears stationed at Ft. Riley, Kan., Silvia and Kimberlyn Palmer of Las Lunas, and Emily and Lainey Potthoff of Bayfield. He also was survived by his 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, 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.
