Fort Dodge Loses Veteran, Heavy equipment Operator Daniel Potratz
SACRAMENTO, CA – Daniel Paul Potratz, 75, a former Fort Dodge resident adn veteran of the U.S. Air Force, died peacefully September 18, 2024, at a VA Hospital in Sacramento, California, following a short illness. Potratz’s passing marks a loss for the Fort Dodge community, where he spent his formative years and remained connected through family and remembrance events.
Born october 8, 1949, in Emmetsburg, Iowa, to Paul and Lois (Kelly) Potratz, Dan’s life journey took him from rural Whittemore, Iowa, to a distinguished career operating heavy equipment with the Operating Engineers local 3 Union in California. His dedication to his craft spanned decades, culminating in a 2018 retirement, and his story reflects a commitment to service-both in the military and through his work-that resonates with many in the region. A Festivity of Life will be held November 2nd in fort Dodge, offering an possibility for friends and family to honor his memory.
Potratz was raised in Whittemore before his family relocated to Fort Dodge, where he attended fort Dodge senior high. Following graduation, he honorably served in the U.S. Air Force from 1968 to 1972. Upon his return to civilian life, he began a long tenure with National Gypsum, working there until 1988. That year, he moved with his family to Sacramento, California, where he joined Operating Engineers Local 3, becoming a skilled heavy equipment operator.
He is survived by his wife, Scarlett; children, Sal (Deanya) Potratz and Carey Potratz; grandchildren, Keely (Brodey) Huffman, Danica Potratz, Keahi Potratz, and Lyman Potratz; great-granddaughter, Adalee Huffman; brothers, Jim (Karol) Potratz, Jon (Sandy) Potratz, and Mike Potratz; sisters, Sandi (Robin) Dancel, Karen (Jim) Grove, and Mary Potratz, along with her daughter, jordan; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Potratz was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and lois Potratz, and his son, Corey Potratz. The celebration of Life will take place at Rides Banquet Center in Fort Dodge from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 2nd.
