Paul H. Potter, 82, of Pleasant Street, Claremont died Saturday, February 18, 2012 after a long illness at the Clough Center in New London, NH.

He was born in Springfield, VT on December 11, 1929 the son of Paul H. and Flora G. (Gibbins) Potter and resided most of his life in Claremont.

Paul was a graduate of Stevens High School in the Class of 1947 and worked for a short time at Sullivan Machine before going to Keene Teachers College but then entered the army serving time in Germany during the Korean Conflict. After the army Paul returned to Keene and received his teaching degree in 1955. Paul married his wife Margaret Griswold on June 18, 1956. He started his teaching career at Woodstock High School where he was also the ski coach and assistant football coach.

In the fall of 1956 Paul started teaching at Stevens High School. He taught math and coached the cross country running team. Over the years he coached other sports including track, skiing and golf. Paul retired from Stevens in 1985 but continued coaching cross country until 1995. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and a trustee. He was also a member of the Stevens Alumni Association. Paul loved to play golf and watch all Boston sports teams. 

The family includes his wife, Margaret of Claremont; one son, Greg Potter and his wife Linda of New London, NH; one daughter, Mary Olds and her husband, Les of Streamwood, IL; three grandchildren, Emmy Potter, Katie Potter and Stephanie Olds. He was preceded in death by a brother, Richard O. Potter.

Visiting hours will be held Wednesday evening, February 22^nd at the Stringer Funeral Home, 146 Broad Street, Claremont from 6 to 8pm.

Funeral services will be held Thursday morning, February 23^rd at 11am at the First Baptist Church on Main Street with Rev. David Crosby Pastor officiating.

Burial will be held privately.

Paul was an avid supporter of organ donation.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in his memory to ­­­­­the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312 or the Clough Center, 273 County Road, New London, NH 03257.