Ted Potempa

Potempa, Ted - March 11, 2026 age 75 of Plymouth. Beloved husband of Vicki. Loving father of Karen (Martin) Pryor and Michael (Joanna) Potempa. Proud grandfather of Benjamin Tyler Pryor, Matthew Lamott Potempa, and Samuel David Potempa. Dear brother of Gordon (Gail) Potempa and Lester (Kathleen) Potempa. Preceded in death by his parents, Aldona and Edward, and his grandsons Christopher Lucas Pryor and Daniel Thomas Pryor. Ted was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather whose life was defined by his love for family, creativity, and curiosity about how things worked. Early in his career, he worked rebuilding machinery and engines, eventually bringing his mechanical expertise to the automotive industry where he helped improve processes through his deep knowledge of machines. Ted loved working with his hands and creating things at home. From kitchen cabinets and floor designs to wooden spoons and bowls, if he could imagine it, he could build it. His favorite pastime was “putzing” in the garage, surrounded by tools and ideas, never giving up on a project until it was done just right. An aviation enthusiast, Ted supported the local EAA Chapter, built the Mettetal Airport sign, and even worked on building his own airplane in his home garage until his health declined. Ted treasured time with his family. Sunday breakfast after church was a weekly tradition he loved. He also enjoyed traveling, with fond memories of a trip to Disney World with his young family and a delayed honeymoon to Hawaii with his wife. He especially loved playing chess with his grandchildren and celebrating holidays together. One of his most cherished memories was Christmas 2025, when he was surrounded by his entire family—something that brought him great joy and remained close to his heart. Ted will be remembered for his determination, creativity, and the deep love he shared with those closest to him. His legacy lives on in the memories he created and the many things he built with his hands and heart. Visitation Sunday, March 15th 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM at Vermeulen-Sajewski Funeral Home, 46401 Ann Arbor Road West (between Sheldon and Beck) Plymouth. Rosary service 6 PM. In state Monday, March 16th 10 AM until the 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church, 47650 North Territorial Road (at Beck) Plymouth. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Capuchin Province of St. Joseph, Solanus Casey Center, 1820 Mt. Elliot Street, Detroit MI 48207. Private Interment to follow. To share a memory, please use the share a memory tab on this webpage.

Ted Potempa

January 27, 1951 - March 11, 2026