Sylvan M. Potemken, a retired registered representative for a stock brokerage, died yesterday at Levindale of kidney failure as a complication from diabetes.

Services were being held today at the Levinson funeral establishment, 6010 Reisterstown Road.

Mr. Potemken, who was 72 and lived in the Samester Apartments, retired about two years ago after 35 years with Gruntal & Co. Inc.

Early in his working life, he was an assistant manager of the old Harbor Field and then of Friendship Airport, now Baltimore-Washington International Airport. Before taking the airport posts, he worked as an accountant for the State Tax Commission.

Born in Baltimore, he was a graduate of City College and the University of Baltimore.

He is survived by two brothers, Bertram L. Potemken of Stevenson and Barry Potemken of Potomac; three nieces; and a nephew.

The family suggested that memorial contributions could be made to the American Diabetes Association.