1943-2026
William “Bill” Joseph Powell Sr., age 83, of Bond Street in Brockway PA, passed away on Friday, July 17th at Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital.
He was born on February 9th, 1943, in Brockway, to the late Eliza and William Powell. Bill graduated from Brockway High School in 1961. He began his career with Brockway Glass where he worked his way through various positions before serving in the International Division for a decade. He later served in various account management roles in several local companies until his retirement in 2007.
A proud veteran, Bill served in the U.S. Army Reserves for 6 years during the Vietnam Era, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Bill was known for his community spirit. He was a fire fighter with the Brockway Volunteer Hose Company for 26 years, serving as Captain of Fire Police and President of the organization for seven years. He was a dedicated member, former officer and director of the Brockway Area Kaimanns. Bill was active in the Brockway Old Fashion 4th of July committee for over 20 years; serving as Co-Chairman for several years for this personal favorite, annual event.
Bill was an avid golfer and loved spending time with family and friends, cheering on the Penn State football team and Steelers, and hunting with his son and grandchildren. He encouraged all his children and grandchildren in their hobbies, sports and academic endeavors. Bill loved to attend their many activities from motocross racing to volleyball and softball.
Bill’s greatest happiness was found in the closeness of his family. He shined brightest when surrounded by his family and friends.
He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Karen Marie Powell; his children, William Joseph “Joe” Powell Jr. and wife Elizabeth, Kimberly Ann Mincemoyer and husband Michael, and Kerri Sue Preston and husband Denver; and his cherished grandchildren, Daniele (& Robert), Brandon, Ryan, Joseph (& Erinn), Matthew, Taylor and Eliza.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Richard Walter Powell.
Visitation will be on Tuesday, July 21 from 5 PM to 8 PM at the Shugarts Funeral Home Inc. in Brockway. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, July 22 at 11:00 AM at St. Tobias Church also in Brockway with Fr. John Detisch and Rev. Terry Felt officiating. Burial will follow in St. Tobias Cemetery. Full Military Honors will be accorded by Parson-Marnati Post #95 of the American Legion’s Burial Detail Wednesday morning at the cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the Toby Creek Watershed Association P.O. Box 247 Brockway, PA 15824 or the Brockway Vol. Hose Company P.O. Box 253 Brockway, PA. 15824.
