Marian POTTRUFF Obituary

Marian (nee Hardaker) Pottruff was born on July 7, 1932, and passed away on October 30, 2025. She lived a life filled with love, curiosity, and community, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and generosity.

Early Life

Marian was born to Richard Hardaker, a dye-chemist from Yorkshire, England, who was recruited by Penman's mills in Paris, Ontario. He married Fern Mower, who descended from the Crysler family of Upper Canada Village. Together, they welcomed Marian and her younger sister Joan into their family.

Education and Career

During high school, Marian’s exceptional typing speed caught the eye of a recruiter from J.D. Adams at Paris High School. She secured a full-time position and convinced her parents to let her leave school early to begin her career.

Love and Family

At J.D. Adams, Marian met Clinton Pottruff, a farmer whose charm sparked a whirlwind romance. It was remembered as a “wild west” love story, full of dramatic turns—fist-fighting suitors, a quiet marriage, and an elopement to Florida. Eventually, they returned to a peaceful life on the farm, where they raised three children and welcomed every neighborhood child who came to their door.

Life and Legacy

Marian nurtured a deep love for reading and instilled that same passion in her children. Library visits were treasured events, always more exciting than television time. She raised her family surrounded by friends and the supportive relationships of the Leach, Miller, and Davis families, forming the close-knit community she cherished.

“Another chapter of our book has closed.”

Tributes

Six trees, flowers, and condolences were sent in support of Marian’s family.
Friends and neighbors shared touching memories in the guestbook reflecting her warmth and generosity.

Author’s Summary

Marian Pottruff’s life was defined by love, family, and community, leaving an enduring example of compassion and strength that continues to inspire those who knew her.

Brantford Expositor Obituaries — 2025-11-05