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BORN
1927
DIED
2021
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Robert Powell Obituary
Robert Milnes Powell, 93 years old, passed away peacefully on August 27th, 2021. He was born in Plant City, Florida on November 29th, 1927.
He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Marlene Powell; 3 beloved children, Daniel Powell, Diane Powell, and Linda Osuna; 7 grandchildren, Jamie Johnson (Craig), Spenser Powell, Cameron Powell, Rachael Arroyo (Luis), Devon Powell, Bryan Amos (Amy), Stephanie Desmond (Joseph); and 12 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents Lonnie and LuLu Powell; and two brothers, William "Bud" Powell and Richard Powell.
His passion was flying and in 1948 he enlisted in the newly formed USAF where he served for 25 years. Initially he started as a weatherman. In 1955 he had the opportunity to go to cadet school and become a pilot.
In 1957 he was one of a few pilots chosen to fly Lockheed's' secret new high altitude reconnaissance aircraft, the U-2. In 1966 he was among eight other U-2 pilots who joined the SR-71 program as the 9th SRW became operational at Beale. He had many important events in both the U-2 and SR-71. He was very proud to have the most missions over Cuba in the 60's (55 missions). He was also very proud to be the first SR-71 pilot to log a 1,000 hours in the SR-71.
He logged thousands of hours in multiple planes throughout his illustrious career.
He is a Veteran of 2 wars and achieved numerous medals including 17 Air Medals and 3 Distinguished Flying Crosses.
Robert was an American hero and epitomized the true meaning of an officer and a gentleman.
He loved to waterski, bowl, golf, and camp with his family. He traveled the world with his wife, and he will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him.
Graveside services will be Friday, September 17th, 2021, at 12:00 p.m. at Sierra View Mortuary. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at the Marysville Elks Lodge.
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert Powell
Garnet & Douglas Quimby
February 4, 2022
I have a photo of Major Powell being suited up in a Partial Pressure Suit with myself as a Staff sergeant. A cherished photo from my association of one of the finest pilots I had the pleasure to work with both stateside and on OL during the early U-2 model. Maj Powell has been an inspiration in my life for the past 50+ years. My photo is displayed in my office beside my Bronze Star certificate. I still miss those days of early morning suit-up and watching the take-off of a fantastic bird. Blessing to the Major and the entire family.
Oscar Marquez
December 29, 2021
I was assigned to the Physiological Support Division at Beale from 69-74. I had the honor of suiting up many of the SR71 of that time. Col Powell was one of them. We dealt with many personalities from the extremely picky to the carefree of pilots. Col Powell was one of the kindest and low key pilots I had the honor of suiting up. He seemed focused on the mission at hand....however by that time in his career he had experienced it all...with his stellar career My deepest condolences to his family and I salute
Col Powell in his journey
Joe Kinego
September 12, 2021
What a true gentleman, outstanding pilot, and one of the cornerstones of the SR-71 program. It was an honor meeting Bob in 1974 and then having the opportunity to hear his stories at many Blackbird Reunions! God Bless!
James H Shelton Jr
September 12, 2021
Bob will always be in our hearts. He has just flown West as all good pilots do when and land in the lords heaven. So long good and faith pilot.
Adelbert "Buz" Carpenter
September 12, 2021
Bob You were the rock that was the corner stone in building the incredibly successful SR-71 program that served our nation with such distinction! Bless you and may you rest in peace. Buz
Frank Stampf
September 11, 2021
Although my time in the SR-71 came much later than Bob's, his legacy touches all in the Habu community... God Bless him and his family.
Sandy and Jon McIntosh
September 10, 2021
Aunt Marlene, please accept our deepest condolences. Uncle Bob will be missed by so many. He was such a wonderful man. Sending much love and hugs to all of you
John Des Portes
September 3, 2021
A pilot's pilot, a great family man, and an American hero.
Al Cote
August 31, 2021
I wish to offer my sincere condolences to the
Powell family.
Pat Halloran
August 31, 2021
What a wonderful guy. One of my very best friends and a true hero for the Air Force in flying a couple of the most demanding planes in the inventory, the U-2 and SR-71. I'll miss that quiet smile that sneaks into a conversation.
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Sep
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Funeral services provided by:
Sierra View Mortuary & Memorial Park4900 Olive Ave, Olivehurst, CA 95961
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