Berta Fae Potter

It is with both sorrow and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Berta Fae (Meehan) Potter, a faithful servant of God, and beloved cornerstone of our family, who was called home to be with her Lord on August 11, 2025, at the age of 104. She was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother — five generations blessed by her steadfast love and enduring legacy.

A visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m., Friday, August 22, 2025, at Infuse Church, 3113 1st Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. A memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m. with a luncheon to follow.

Born on February 14, 1921, in Ree Heights, South Dakota, to Floyd and Katherine (Berry) Meehan, Berta lived through more than a century of history with unwavering faith, grace, and wisdom. She graduated from St. Lawrence, S.D. Public School in 1939 and Wessington Springs Jr. College in 1940. After this, she taught for one year in a one-room schoolhouse.

Berta was married to Robert Ray Ivo Potter on May 23, 1941. They were married for 72 years until his passing. Together, they built their family.

Growing up, Berta liked school, her favorite subject being math. She was both a cheerleader and homecoming queen. She also played sports and several musical instruments. Music came naturally to her and was one of her greatest loves. This was evident in several ways. She had many favorite hymns and enjoyed sharing fond memories of her time in marching band. Her grandchildren remember her smile as they, at her request, would demonstrate their talents singing and playing instruments for her at family gatherings.

A devout Christian, she credited Sunday school and church as having the greatest impact on her life. She attended First Church of the Nazarene, where she faithfully gave of her treasure, time, and talent. She often shared her musical gifts by playing the piano for services.

To all who knew her, she was a woman of great dignity, humility, and strength. She treasured her Bible, prayed, and lived the Gospel through simple, daily acts of love and generosity. Her hands were rarely still — whether she was baking bread, sewing, or comforting a child, she did all things with patience and care.

She leaves behind a legacy of faith, resilience, and love. Her family is honored to rise up and call her blessed.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice knowing she is now in the presence of the Savior she loved and served so faithfully. Her life was a testament to the truth of Psalm 91:16 — “With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”

Berta was the mother of Kathryn (Marty) Martin, Donald (Cindy) Potter, Karren (Darrell) Arvidson, Michael (Mary Lou) Potter, and Jerry (Mary) Potter. Survivors include Marty Martin, Don (Cindy) Potter, Karren (Darrell) Arvidson, Mary Lou Potter, Mary Potter, and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; her daughter, Kathryn; son, Michael; son, Jerry; and grandson, Donald.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23