Marian Pottruff Obituary
Marian (née Hardaker) Pottruff was born on July 7, 1932, and passed away on October 30, 2025. She was the daughter of Richard Hardaker, who came from Yorkshire, England to work as a dye chemist at Penman’s mills in Paris, Ontario, and Fern Mower, a descendant of the Crysler family from Upper Canada Village.
Marian and her sister Joan grew up in a warm family environment. Her talent for typing was noticed during her time at Paris High School by a recruiter from J.D. Adams. Soon after, she began a full-time position there and convinced her parents that leaving school early was the right next step.
It was at J.D. Adams where she met Clinton Pottruff, a farmer. Their romance was full of excitement—marked by intense competition among suitors, a quiet marriage, and even a brief elopement to Florida before settling into farm life together. They built a family and raised three children, welcoming every child in Bethel as if they were their own.
As a mother, Marian nurtured her children’s curiosity and love for reading, ensuring that books and library visits always came first. Her kindness and community spirit extended well beyond her home, forming lifelong connections with the Leach, Miller, and Davis families, who became part of their everyday life.
“Another chapter of our book has closed.”
Tributes and Memories
- Four community tributes and memorial trees were shared in her honor.
- Friends and family recalled her generosity, humor, and quiet strength.
- Visitors continue to celebrate her life and legacy through the guestbook.
Legacy
Marian’s life reflected devotion, love, and the strength of community. Her memory lives on through her children, the families she embraced, and the countless individuals she inspired through her gentle care and lifelong curiosity.
Author’s summary: A devoted mother and community heart, Marian Pottruff’s life was defined by generosity, learning, and love that shaped everyone around her.