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John A. Powers

John A. Powers

John Arthur Powers age 92, of Menomonie, died Tuesday at The Neighbors of Dunn County in Menomonie, surrounded by his family.

John was born in Eau Claire on June 2, 1924, the son of Arthur B. and Violetta C. (DuPont) Powers.  He was raised in Faribault, MN, graduating from Faribault High School in 1942.  John enlisted in the Navy, becoming a Naval Pilot.  He transferred to the U.S. Marine Corps as a Marine Pilot.  John flew Transport Planes in the South Pacific and China during WW II.  John spent five years Active Duty and 15 years Reserve Duty. John married Eleanor C. Simons October 9, 1948 in St. Paul, MN.  He retired after 20 years in 1966 as Major John A. Powers.

John graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 1954.  He taught high school in Kimball, MN for three years.  In 1957, John taught school in Racine, WI at Washington Jr. High School for five years.  He then moved to William Horlick High School and was Assistant High School Principal.  John then became Principal of William Horlick “Gray” School.  During this time he received his Master’s Degree in Education Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.  John spent 22 years at William Horlick High School, retiring in 1984.

John enjoyed fishing, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

John is survived by his wife, Eleanor, a son Thomas R. (Terri) of Kenosha, two daughters, Margaret C. “Peggy” (Jon) Fuller of Menomonie, Barbara A. Bassett of Castle Rock, CO; 17 grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, a son Stephen and a brother Eugene.

Graveside services will be held in the spring at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to The Alzheimers Association in John’s name.

Condolences

  1. Sandy Duffek (Meekma)

    My sincere condolences to the family for your loss. I was a class of 72 grad and Grey School student. Mr. Powers and his colleague Mr.Stenovich were respectef, imposing figures that could be tough and intimidating yet kind and gentle depending on the need. His years of service to the students of Wm Horlick High School helped to mold countless students into engaged, respectful, hardworking adults.
    God Bless the Powers family.

  2. Jason & Darcy Boda

    Sorry for your loss. John was a kind man with no complaints. Living in our home for the last 4 years has been very rewarding . God bless, Jason& Darcy Boda

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