Tribute

Michael Richard Potter passed away suddenly on June 3, 2025 at the age of 73. Described by all who knew him as a kind and gentle man, Mike was a loving husband and father who lived a life of integrity, generosity and loyalty.

Underlying Mike’s calm and unassuming manner was a man with a great intellect, an inquisitive nature, an open mind and a sense of fun. Always up for any social or sports opportunity that came along, Mike would join in with wholehearted enthusiasm. He truly did dance like nobody was watching. Mike had time for everyone and he was the least judgmental person you could ever meet.

Born May 5, 1952 in Suffolk, England, Mike’s childhood years were spent in North Vancouver, BC. Mike had many fond memories of family summers spent in the Okanagan, as well as countless sailing expeditions. The passion Mike developed for sailing in his youth stayed with him throughout his life. His adventurous spirit was really brought to the fore in his young adult life when he tried skydiving, rock climbing, scuba diving, and sailboat and car racing.

Mike attended UBC in the 1970’s, studying math and computing. A change of heart led him to make the switch to BCIT’s Television Production program. Mike had a lengthy career in Vancouver, first at CKVU where he held positions in several different production and operations roles and then with the Knowledge Network. Originally hired to do studio work, he went on to become the Manager of Production and Operations.

In the late 90’s, Mike’s in-demand background in computing and television production led him to a new career as an international project manager for a British company, IBIS, that designed software for TV stations. Based in Portugal for a year and then England for several more, Mike was able to relocate to BC in 2005.

After several years of travelling the globe for work, Mike was happy to find a local IT position in 2013 at Queen Margaret’s School in Duncan, BC, where he helped teachers and students with their myriad  technical needs. He stayed at QMS until his retirement in 2020. Throughout his career, Mike was universally well-liked and respected by his colleagues.

The last two decades of Mike’s life were spent with his wife, Sandy. During those years they turned their Mill Bay property into a little piece of paradise, provided a warm and loving environment for Mike’s children when they came to stay, had many sailing trips in the Gulf Islands, gave a home to three dogs, and had many happy hours together, enjoying each other’s company.

Mike always put others’ happiness before his own. Family came first. His love for Sandy was deep and enduring and he was thrilled to become a grandpa in 2023, but his children were the brightest sparks in his life. He was so proud of the wonderful adults they have become.

Mike is survived by his wife, Sandy, his children from his former marriage: Samantha, Mathew (Ashton) and Annabel, granddaughter Amelia, his mother Thora, siblings John (Peggy), Jill (Keith) and Derek (Candy), nephews David (Karen) and Russell, nieces Jennifer (Josh) and Jessica, great-nephews James and Noah, and best friend Dave Sinclair. He was deeply loved and is greatly missed. We will hold him in our hearts forever.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held at a later date.