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Jeffrey J. ‘Jeff’ Potvin

BARK RIVER — Jeffrey J. “Jeff” Potvin, 50, of Bark River, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday Nov. 28, 2019, at his home of natural causes.

He was born in Norway, Mich., on March 7, 1969, son of James and Marian “Kay” (Farrell) Potvin. He was raised in Schaffer, graduating from Bark River High School in 1987 and he attended Bay College.

On March 4, 1991, Jeff enlisted in the Navy. He was honored with a National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. He was honorably discharged on Feb. 12, 1993.

On Dec. 7, 2017, Jeff married Chamvie Umalie.

Jeff was employed at Island Resort and Casino for a few years before starting his career as a corrections officer for the Michigan Department of Corrections in Newberry for 14 years before retiring.

He was a sports enthusiast. Jeff coached basketball and baseball at the high school level while he resided in Newberry. He was an avid Green Bay Packer and Milwaukee Bucks fan. Jeff also had a love for politics.

Jeff adored his mom and often referred to himself as a “momma’s boy.” He committed much of his time with daily visits to see his mom and helping her with household chores, but she returned the favor helping him in so many ways also. They had a special bond and he will be missed by his entire family.

Among survivors are his mother, Kay Potvin of Schaffer; siblings, Chad Potvin (Julie) of Escanaba and Lisa (Bart) Hall of Bark River; nephews, Zach (Jessica), Dustin (Soomin) Hall and Anthony Potvin; and great-niece and nephews Rooney, Hugo and Olivia.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jim, and grandparents.

Graveside services will be held in the spring at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Schaffer.

A message of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting crawfordfuneralhomes.net.