Gary Ray Potter

Gary Ray Potter, 81, of Murrieta, California, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026.

Gary was born on September 28, 1944, in Boise, Idaho, to C. Ray and Ina Potter. He attended the University of Idaho in Moscow, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Gary dedicated much of his professional life to the cable television industry, a field in which he was both innovative and entrepreneurial. He founded his own television company in Jefferson, Oregon, and later established Potter Design & Engineering in San Marcos, California, where he built a respected career through his expertise, hard work, and vision.

Beyond his career, Gary embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He was an avid lover of beagles and cherished his faithful companions, Fred, CJ, and Mia. A lifelong motorsports enthusiast, he enjoyed Formula One and IndyCar racing and even competed in go-kart racing himself. In recent years, he found great joy exploring the backcountry of Idaho on off-road adventures with lifelong friends from his youth.

Music was another of Gary's great passions. He appreciated all genres but especially loved classic rock and the laid-back melodies of Jimmy Buffett, whose music often served as the soundtrack to gatherings with family and friends.

Above all, Gary treasured his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of more than 40 years, Margie Potter; his daughter, Nichole (Chris) O'Leary; his son, Jared (Heather) Potter; six cherished grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Linda (Dennis) Welch and Sherry (Mike) Currier; and his brother, Allen (Diana) McDowell.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Ina Potter, and his biological mother, Jeannie McDowell, and sister, Donna.

Gary will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, quick wit, love of adventure, deep appreciation for music, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. His legacy lives on through the family and friends whose lives he touched, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Per Gary’s request, there will be no funeral or memorial service. His family invites those who knew and loved him to honor his memory in their own way.