J.WPI/NTPA regrets to report the passing on Sunday, December 29 of John J. Potts of Denmark, Wisconsin. Mr. Potts was both the 1988 Grand National Two Wheel Drive champion in the 6,200-lb. class and the Pro National champ at 5,800 lbs. with his “Budweiser Excalibur King” 1939 Dodge panel van.
Mr. Potts started his trucking company, Denmark Express, and grew it from one rig to a multi-truck operation. He also owned and operated JP’s Bar and Denmark Gardens.
Originally a Modified puller and then briefly a competitor in the Mini division, Mr. Potts’ rise to the twin TWD titles was meteoric. He started out in the class in 1985, and one year prior to his championship campaign, he finished 18th and 25th in the two classes’ final standings. But a change in powerplants and a dedication to run both circuits from his home base in central Wisconsin paid dividends in that magical year.
“We couldn’t let up for a minute,” said Mr. Potts after his places in the NTPA record books were secured. “But of course that’s what makes pulling the sport it is. And when you win, you know you’ve won something,”
He is survived by Louise, his wife of 48 years, their children Celena (Nathan) Nelson, Nick (Jenny), Greg (Abbie), and Shawn (Nicole); 10 grandchildren; brothers, Jim (Patsy) and Jeff (Ann); and many wonderful nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. His complete obituary may be found here.
Visitation for Mr. Potts’ family and friends will be held at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 3425 Willow Road, Denmark, Wisconsin on Friday, January 3 from 4 to 8 p.m. A parish wake service will begin at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue on Saturday at the church from 9 a.m. until his funeral mass begins at 11 a.m. Online condolences may be expressed at www.prokowall.com.
Please keep Louise and the entire Potts family in your thoughts as they mourn during this holiday season.