Kathy Ann Potucek

Kathy Ann Potucek of Saginaw, Michigan

Beloved wife, mother, and grandmother passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. She was 63 years old. Kathy Ann Bethurum was born on February 16, 1962, in Flint, Michigan, to the late Jack Jay and Carole Jean (Laurin) Bethurum. She was a proud 1980 graduate of Swan Valley High School. Following graduation, she began working at Meijer on Gratiot Road as a cashier, retiring in 2024, after 43 years of loyal and dedicated service. She met the love of her life, Michael James Potucek, while working at Meijer. They dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage on July 19, 1986; he survives her. The role in life she treasured and cherished the most was to be a mother, wife, and especially grandmother “Nana”. Kathy was a longtime and faithful member of Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, St. Dominic Parish. Her little piece of heaven was being a Michigan enthusiast by exploring the UP with her husband, rolling down her window smelling the fresh UP air while crossing the Mackinaw Bridge, being grateful to take in the beautiful and breathtaking views of the waterfalls, and rock collecting on the beaches. She also cheered for all the Detroit teams: Tigers, Red Wings, and Lions, as well as all University of Michigan sports. Kathy also loved thrifting and was always looking for hidden treasures. She will forever be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and for selflessly putting her family’s needs and other’s needs before her own, for her wonderful sense of humor, and for her innate ability to embody all things as a mother. She was also known for her strength as a fighter to conquer every challenge that was put in her path.

Surviving are her husband of 39 years, Michael J. Potucek of Saginaw; three daughters: Bethany (Andrew) Karl of Freeland; Ashley (Jacob) Reynolds of Saginaw; Amanda (Bobby) Potucek of Saginaw; four grandchildren: Jess Karl, Eli Karl, Penny Reynolds, and Lucy Reynolds; and her mother-in-law, Kathleen Potucek. Also surviving are countless cousins, a brother-in-law, two sisters-in-law, many extended family members, and dear friends too numerous to mention, but held close to Kathy’s heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Carole Bethurum.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to her husband, Michael, for being her loving caregiver for the past few years. Kathy and her family are forever grateful for all the care provided by her doctors, specialists, nurses, and aides, as well as all who took wonderful care of her at Covenant HealthCare and Henry Ford Hospital, we sincerely appreciate your love, care, and compassion.

Honoring Kathy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of her life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the American Cancer Association, the American Diabetes Association, Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center, or the Alzheimer’s Association. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family through www.casefuneralhome.com.