Puddy Rick Pottebaum

Richard “Rick” or “Puddy” John Pottebaum was born on June 25, 1964, in Carroll, Iowa, to Arthur and Louvine (Hoffman) Pottebaum. He was one of four children and grew up on the family farm, developing a love for farming that stayed with him throughout his life.

Rick attended Kuemper Catholic Schools and graduated with the Class of 1982. During his junior and senior years of high school, he worked at Hy-Vee in Carroll.

Following high school, Rick began working for Farmland, which later became Smithfield. Over the course of 38 years, he worked his way into management before retiring in 2024. In 1997, he purchased an acreage where he enjoyed having cows, dogs, and lots of cats. His love of the farm and animals remained an important part of his life.

A devoted Chicago Bears and Cubs fan, Rick enjoyed watching his team and talking sports. He was also a great storyteller—although, as those who knew him best would probably agree, not every detail of his stories was necessarily true! Rick made many friends throughout his life and was known for his personality and ability to make people laugh. Above all, he cherished his grandchildren and the time he spent with them.

Rick passed away on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at home, having attained the age of 62 years, two months and seven days. He was preceded in death by his father, Art Pottebaum.

Those left to cherish his memory include his significant other, Harriet Reandeau of Denison; step-daughter, Shauntee (Boe) Winey of Defiance; grandchildren: Zander, Zerik, and Zayda; mother, Lou Pottebaum of Carroll; siblings, Kathy (Doug) Olmstead of Granger, Dr. Jim (Cindy) Pottebaum of Winterset, and Dave (Jennifer) Pottebaum of Carroll; many nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; aunts and uncles; extended family members; and friends.

Funeral Services are pending and will be updated as soon as they become available.