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MICHAEL F. POWERS Jr.

1934 - 2022

BORN

1934

DIED

2022

MICHAEL POWERS Obituary

Michael F. Powers Jr., of Des Plaines, passed away on July 8, 2022, in Park Ridge. Michael was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Michael Powers Sr. and Marie D'Andrea on October 6, 1934. He earned his teaching degree from National Louis University and worked as a teacher at South School in District 62 for over 35 years. He was an amazing teacher who loved his students and influenced many lives in a profound way. He was a beloved husband and soulmate to Carole (nee Niemz) for 58 years, brother to David Powers; loving uncle to Nancy Etzold, Dess Ann Fedele, Mathew Powers. Stephen Powers, Ashley Cunningham, Christopher Powers, Shelley Langguth, Jeffrey Langguth, Laura Hedrick Zoltowski, and Michael Hedrick. He was a kind, patient, enthusiastic, and optimistic person who enjoyed traveling, music, sports, history, and reading. Most of all, he loved interacting with people. He was a White Sox fan and loved playing golf. He was a member of St. Mary Church in Des Plaines, serving as a member of the parish council, organizing fundraisers, and singing in the choir. He managed a south-side Des Plaines Little League team for many years, was a member of the Des Plaines Elks Lodge, and volunteered at both Holy Family and Lutheran General hospitals. He was an outstanding singer who was proud of his Irish ancestry. He enjoyed singing with the Irish Heritage Singers of Chicago and loved the many friendships he established through the organization. Michael is preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Thomas Powers; his nephew, David Powers; and his sister-in-law, Patricia Obidowicz. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 E. Ohio Street, Chicago, IL 60611.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Daily Herald on Jul. 13, 2022.

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Dan Cerny

August 30, 2022

Mr Powers was my 5th grade teacher and influenced my life greatly. I entered the Marine corps I became a pastor and I never forgot the things that he taught me. I'm 71 now and I'm thankful that I was able to connect with him last year one last time. I always thought he'd live forever. He will be missed

Dave Dadabo

August 29, 2022

I was surprised to hear about Mike's passing. I sang with him in church choir for many years and can still remember his beautiful baritone voice. Also the Yesteryears shows he wrote the scripts for that we performed together. I still have a recording of Snow Yellow and the Three Runts, with Mike playing the ever lovely Snow Yellow, of course. I have been looking forward to being at his celebration of life, but have not heard any more details.

Colleen Bond

August 1, 2022

Mike and Carole where truly an inspiring couple. After retiring they gave back to the community. they didn´t move they would pop up to volunteer either at hospitals or any place that they were needed. Mike will be very much missed.My son Jimmy was in his six grade class. My heart goes out to Carole she will miss her Soulmate and partner in good deeds.

Dan Cerny

July 25, 2022

I was one of Mr. Powers "Kids" and I would have never attained the success I have without him. I don't know if any like him still exist, I hope they do, he will be missed.

Tom Keating

July 16, 2022

Mike was an excellent teacher. His report with all the students he came in touch with was some thing we all hoped to achieve. The extra effort he added to the annual school music programs made these events very memorable to students, staff, and our especially our music teacher.
Tom and Carole Keating

Gail Deadwyler

July 15, 2022

Carole and family, may God bless you all. My sympathies at this hard time.

Matt Pilarski

July 14, 2022

Mr Powers was my sixth grade teacher in 1972 and I also had the honor of playing on a little league team he coached. Without a doubt, Mr Powers left a positive impression on me.
I feel blessed he had the opportunity to touch my life as a teacher and coach.
My sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

Tom Van Vleet

July 14, 2022

My 6th grade teacher ,football coach,baseball coach, and customer of my business. A man I respected. Sorry for your loss Mrs Powers.

Sharon Shepps

July 14, 2022

Mr. Powers is a teacher I have never forgotten. We moved to Des Plaines the summer of 1974 and I began 6th grade not knowing anyone. He was very kind to me and made a me feel way less anxious about starting at a new school. He always showed an interest in all of his students. He was a one-of-kind teacher. So sorry for your loss. I´m sure he will be dearly missed.

Mark Skoczynski

July 14, 2022

Mr. Powers is one of those who impact young peoples lives. I had him as a little coach and later as a customer when I owned a business in Des Plaines. Always had a kind word and always a pleasure to spend time with him. I am sadden by this news, my condolences to his family.

Cynthia Kanowske

July 13, 2022

Mr. Powers cared about his students & taught me so much! He was & is my favorite teacher of all time. If more teachers were like him we would all be good in school & a good person. Thank you so much for your kindness & wisdom!

Robert Kosmicki minister of care

July 13, 2022

It was a pleasure meeting Michael, if only for a short while. My prayers and condolences to Carole and the family.

Kelly Arens - Whicker

July 13, 2022

This was so hard to see. You both are in so many of my favorite memories. Bet he and Patti (Mom), are up there getting something straightened out right now. I am so sorry for your loss. The world was a better place with him in it.

Steve Lambrechts

July 13, 2022

Carole, Sorry for your loss. He was by far the BEST teacher I ever had. I graduated from South School in the Early 70's. So many great memories of him, I cannot even begin to mention them. I have thought of him many times over the years.

William A. Laske

July 13, 2022

Condolences to the family on your loss.
Mr. Powers was my Little League Manager 1962-65. He was an excellent coach and role model. He impacted my life and I have thought of him over the years. May he Rest In Peace.

Sheri Wills

July 13, 2022

Dearest Carole,
My heart goes out to you at this time with the deepest of sympathy. Michael was a wonderful man, a dear friend and will be greatly missed. Since Covid many things have changed and one of them was not being able to see our friends. I will always remember Michael's dear, dear smile and his soft demeanor. You were very blessed to have each other for so many wonderful years. You will be in my prayers and until we meet again may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Much love,
Sheri Wills

Scott Stephenson

July 13, 2022

I graduated from 6th grade in 1984. Mr. Powers was an excellent teacher. South School was fortunate to have him as a teacher. God Bless

David Petersen

July 13, 2022

Mrs. Powers: Prayers of comfort as you mourn the loss of Mike. God's Peace be with you. Rev. David Petersen (class with the Four Davids, '63-'64.)

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