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Richard Powers Obituary
Richard I. Powers
Passed away April 5th in Fremont, CA at the age of 53 after a short battle with cancer. He is preceded in death by his father, Charlie Powers, and survived by his mother, Ella Akerson of Caribou, Maine, his brothers: Charlie Powers Maine; Mike Powers Virginia; John Akerson North Carolina; nephew, Bill Powers Virginia, as well as many other family members.Richard was born on September 9, 1952 in Norfolk, Virginia and grew up in Caribou, Maine. He graduated from Caribou High School in 1970, then obtained a B.S. degree in Electronic Engineering at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA. He moved to the San Francisco Bay Area and started Ultra Analog Corporation in Pleasanton. He received his MBA from St. Mary's College, Moraga, CA in 1993. After a few years in Florida, Richard returned to work at Semtech Corporation in Southern California. Richard was an avid scuba diver and underwater photographer. He loved hiking, biking, kayaking, good wine, and entertaining friends. He will be deeply missed by his family and all of his many wonderful friends. Richard's ashes will be sprinkled into the Pacific Ocean on a date to be determined, at Ocean Cove, a place he loved to dive for abalone and camp with friends. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the charity of your choice.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Powers
Billy Powers
September 9, 2006
We are all taking a moment today to remember Richard. Today would've celebrated Richards' birthday. You are loved and missed dear friend.
Our thoughts and prayers to GrandMama on this lonely day.
Your Niece & Nephew
Bill & Carrie (the Co-CEO)
ella akerson
July 8, 2006
To: John Kern...Yes, go into "snapfish" & extracted all the "beautiful" photo's of the "Richard" memorial. WOW!!! I'm 3000 mi.'s away, but, your photos are right here on my PC; "Almost" like being at the solomn event in person. Sent a "thank you" by em to [email protected] (not delivered?} Then, noted I could comment in the guest book. Mike Michaud was here 7/5 with many more pic.'s of the event. He is a pro on the PC w/internet security...he added his photos to yours, also on my PC. For more info: his em :[email protected] em is [email protected]. "Friend of Richard's" is a friend of mine. Regardless that we may never meet/that's OK. My most sincere "Thanks" to you!!! Ella
Dawn Frost
July 3, 2006
I too was there in spirit. Dick's passing has really hit me hard. I'm glad the gathering for him was so special. What a wonderful way to celebrate his full life.
I will treasure the ring of his that Joy sent me forever.
Jim `Noel
June 24, 2006
I would like to 2nd what Mrs. Akerson wrote. It was a wonderful memorial. I think everyone, particularly those who have never been there before, got a good feel as to the specialness of Ocean Cove and why Richard loved it so much. He made it special. I also think he was there in spirit as evidenced (in my mind) by the biggest shooting star I have ever seen and by the best diving conditions in years. I think Richard rigged it that way knowing that my diving skills aren’t what they used to be and to insure that everyone would get a few slabs of ab; that everyone would have a good time in his memory. I met Richard at Ocean Cove, had a whale experience with him there and it was there that he returned. So O.C. holds a special place in my heart as will Richard who I will always remember with great fondness. I still hear his laughter. What a great heart he had. I miss him.
Jim Noel
ella akerson
June 23, 2006
6/23/06 Special "thanks" go to Bill & Carrie Powers for making this guest book available for all of us!!!! Re: Richard Powers Memorial: Extending appreciation and most sincere "THANKS" to Ron & Joy Lopez & family, Dr. Jim & Lori Quillen & Hannah, Jim Noel & many friends from SemTech, Intersil, life-long friends-"Judy Wolf & Mike Michaud", brother, Charlie Powers & wife TJ. Divers who provided "abalone" and all others for being a part of this most solemn event. I have to believe that Richard Powes was there "in spirit" and smiling with "all" of you!! Yes, 3000 miles away, but I was there "in spirit" also. Sincerly Ella (Powers) Akerson
Bill Powers
June 12, 2006
My sincerest thanks to all who attended Richards' Memorial at Ocean Cove this past weekend! From all accounts, it sounds like it was a beautiful tribute! A special thanks to Ron, Joy, and the Lopez family, Dr. and Mrs. Quillen, and the Semtech family for their above and beyond efforts! Our family is truly humbled by your outpouring.
Warmest Regards,
Bill & Carrie Powers
Joy Lopez
May 31, 2006
Richard's memorial will be held on June 10th at 4:00PM PST at Ocean Cove on the California coast. We will distribute his ashes into the waters in which we dove together so many times. Please contact me for more information.
Richard &Theresa Ouillette
May 18, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Glen (Willy) Ouillette
May 14, 2006
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Bill Powers
May 6, 2006
You are missed so very much... I took for granted the ability to call you and chat. My friend, my mentor, always had time to discuss life with me. Richards' nuggets of knowledge fed me and the pangs of hunger are more pronounced with your passing. I've learned so much from you. Your untimely passing continues to teach me new lessons. Lessons about accountability, relationships, balance, and time... I miss you so much and wish we could talk one more time.
Love
Billy
Len Schneider
April 26, 2006
I went looking for a company and found a friend in a taxi line at a trade show in Las Vegas. Yes, the story is a bit more complicated than that but that's essentially what brought Richard and I together.
During our association, UltraAnalog, the company he founded, helped the organization I worked for develop several truly outstanding products.
Later, UltraAnalog became my first client and, thanks to Dick's support and efforts, I soon found myself with several more and a business that's still ongoing today.
In that respect, I owe him a great deal and was sorry to lose touch with him in the late '90s.
I remember how tough he was in negotiaging a contract. Those sitting on the other side of the table used to joke about how Dick would coach a basketball team - that the only technique the team would know would be a full-court press. But he sometimes gave himself away with a wry smile that said that he enjoyed playing hard with other who were equally competitive.
The other side of the coin was how scrupulous Dick would be in fulfilling his part after the deal was signed. His talent and drive sometimes made for a difficult co-existence but you had to admire his focus on delivering what he said he would.
In retrospect, Dick gave more than he asked for. That, at least to me, defines a friend.
I will miss him.
Kylie Felicich (Grant)
April 24, 2006
I sincerely hope that Richard knew how very much he was loved. I was his REP. in the Bay Area and we all looked forward to his visits. We would hit customers in the morning and then head to the city for a nice long lunch on the waterfront. Richard was one of the classiest people I have ever known. I hope that he is golfing like crazy up in heaven. Sincerely, Kylie (Grant) Felicich
Dawn Frost
April 23, 2006
I guess I might be the only one who still called Richard, Dick. That's how far back he and I go. We dated in high school, were friends throughout our college years, and stayed in touch over all the years through e-mail, visits, trips together, and at our reunions. He was a very special person to me. Dick called me from the hospital to tell me what was happening and I regret not having the money for an airline ticket to be able to see him one last time. We had some wonderful times over the thirty odd years that we knew each other. Too many to recount. I remember meeting Ella for the first time when Dick and I were in high school. John was just a little guy then. He gave me his class ring that night. After we broke up, I remembered asking my English teacher to let me change classes because it was too hard for me to see him every day. What a long, long time ago.
While at college we saw each other often. We saw the bands "Bread" and "Buddy Miles Express" together at my school. I believe Mike Michaud was there as well. My roommate met and loved Dick, giving him her own special name,"Dickens".I visited him in his first N.H. apartment that he shared with Mike. I was supposed to visit him 3 years ago in Florida but it didn't work out on my end. That will always be a regret now. The last time I saw him was last summer. We corresponded throughout the year.He always seemed so healthy, so full of life, always traveling or snorkeling- he lived life to the fullest!!! I never thought it was to be the last time I would see my wonderful friend. I am so grateful that he called me a few months ago. I will cherish that conversation.Even in the hospital, knowing what he was facing his first thought was for his mother. He asked me not to tell her because he didn't want to prolong the pain she would feel upon his leaving us all.That was most important of all to him-to make things easier for the mother that he loved so much. Dick was and wherever he is, will always be a wonderful, caring, giving man who is loved by far more people than he knew.
In loving memory,
Dawn Frost
Lorraine Daigle
April 18, 2006
I have only known Richard for the last 2 years. He called me and wanted to meet his newest cousin. We met in Portland ME and I felt like I had know him forever. What a warm and wonderful person. We had lunch together, Richard, Charlie and I, and we laughed like we had known each other for a long time. I felt so happy to get to know him. He introduced me to members of my family that I would have never gotten to know. He introduced me to Bev and her beautiful little Boutique. He always made me feel like part of the family I never know I had. Richard will always be in my heart and will be greatly missed.
Mike Michaud
April 17, 2006
Richard was like a brother to me, from high school, through college and throughout our business careers. He was a great friend, a business mentor, and my golfing/ backpacking/skiing buddy.
Richard’s drive and zest for life with all of its opportunities and challenges was contagious, infecting those around him to reach higher. Much of my personal success is attributed to his sound advice early on in our careers, along with our mutual challenges brought about by a sibling-like rivalry.
Dick, the intensity with which you approached life serves as a reminder for us all. It was an honor to have known you. I will miss you my friend.
Ken Bauer
April 17, 2006
Although I had only known Richard a very short time, he became a very special friend to many of his here at Semtech. You could always count on him to tell you like it is and never bring a problem with out a suggested solution. He will really be missed by all of us.
Maria Jarquin-Lesky
April 17, 2006
I had the honor to know Richard through work at Semtech. I admired his courage and strength throughout his illness but what I remember best about him is his positive attitude and very strong conviction of how things needed to be done! He was indeed a remarkable man whose legacy will live in our hearts. I know his spirit will always be with us. My deepest sympathy to the Powers family.
Terry Sears
April 17, 2006
Though Richard worked with us at Semtech for a short nine months or so, he changed the fabric of our lives with his intellect, honesty, charm and zeal for living. Knowing him has truly been a life-reward. I honor his memory and send my sincere condolences to the family.
Jeff Strang
April 17, 2006
I worked for Richard for several years at Intersil. He really believed in that almost-lost art of mentoring, and I am a better person because of him. I could count on Richard for advice and guidance on anything. Even after we were no longer working together, he always made time for me. My wife-to-be would roll her eyes when I'd arrive home from work on the cell phone with Richard because she knew we didn't have short conversations. I'll always be grateful for what he had to share.
Thelma(TJ) Powers
April 16, 2006
Richard was a classmate of mine(Class of 1970) then he became my brother-in-law. I really came to know him then through visits and through my husband Charlie. Richard was a man to be highly respected and loved. Sleep well brother-in-law for now you sleep with the angels.
Ella (Powers)Akerson
April 14, 2006
With Richard & I, it has "always"been a two-way street. He gave love and was loved. In all his 53 1/2 yr.'s he was there for me & I here for him. 3000 mi.'s or a foreign country away: "Always", communication, lfaithful & honesty: "tell it like it is." The "rock" in my life: no games, no lows, no gray area;simply an A-1 son. "Always",No matter how far, he has "always" been near in my heart and in my mind. Real memories of him are everywhere in my home...too many to list. As I told him to reach for "inner strength" to get well; I know he would want me to also reach for "inner strength" to surmount the pain and hurt which is mine today. Every mother on this planet shold be blessed with such a "genuine" son "Always" I Love You, Mom PS from a song/fitting: How deep is the ocean? How high is the sky? How far would I travel, just to be where you are? And, if I ever lost you , How hard would I cry? "How deep is the ocean...How high is the sky!" Ella (Powers) Akersonno matter how
a friend
April 14, 2006
Richard was a sweet tender person. He had a heart as big as the world and a sense of adventure to match. He shared everything. He had friends all over the world. He helped anyone who would who was open to being helped. He made people feel good about who they were and anyone who knew him became more. He inspired people. It wasn’t his success in business that defined him. It was his spirit. My life is enriched for having known him. Years ago he saved my life and never once did he mention it to me nor to anyone else I’m sure. Finally, on his death bed I acknowledged to him what he had done so many years ago and I thanked him, kissed him and told him I loved him. I’m happy to have known him and I’m sad he is gone. See you again someday my friend.
Ann Vu
April 11, 2006
Richard and I met through Elantec – Intersil acquisition 5 yrs ago. We became good friend and working buddy. We share common interest of Border Collie, Italian music, hiking, and birthday. It is hard for anyone not to spot Richard across the room with his laughter, loving, fun, and energize personality. Richard became a golf teacher, and an uncle friend to Amanda (my daughter) through out Amanda’s teenager years with many ups and downs. Richard’s illness the last 3 months reconfirmed the meaning and the strength of the word friendship. We miss Richard deeply, most of all his charms, laughter, and his unique way of caring/loving for others. We always love you, Richard.
Joy Lopez
April 11, 2006
It has taken me many days to be able to write in this guest book. I am overwhelmed with saddness at the loss of my wonderful friend. His presence in our home over these last months touched all of us and his absence has left a hole in our lives. I will miss his laughter, his stories, his voice, and most of all, his smile.
Susan Galassi
April 11, 2006
A perfect gentleman, a perfect host and a perfect friend. I will miss you forever. My heart goes out to Richard's family and fellow friends as we have all lost someone who impacted each of our lives significantly.
Judy Kelley Wolf
April 11, 2006
I grew up next door to Richard and spent more time in his house then I did mine. His zest for life was incredible and it took him all over the world. Richards best gift was making incredible friends. My thoughts and prayers are with Ella "my second mom" and of course all his brothers and the rest of his family. I wll miss him very much.
Barry Thiessen
April 10, 2006
I met Richard on my wedding day - I married his "sister" (cousin, really, but they were close) and he was good enough to escort my bride and I safely from the reception to our hotel. I realized quickly that I wouldn't want to cross him.
Over the ensuing years I appreciated more and more his caring, hospitality, sense of humor and love of life, which never stopped. He will be missed greatly by our whole family.
Lisa Thiessen
April 10, 2006
Although we're cousins (his Dad & my Dad were brothers), Richard has always treated me like a sister, and my children, as his nieces & nephew. He was so excited about the opening of the Georgia Aquarium (imagine that) & looked forward to taking our kids there. Richard always reached higher, and he inspired me to think and dream big - - no mediocrity. He was an encourager, and always seemed to find the best in everyone. No doubt, he would have even found something encouraging to say had he succeeded at getting me onto a golf course. I could write so much more on all that I learned from him. Ironically, words can't begin to describe what a wonderful and precious human being he was. I miss him so much.
Rose Gomes
April 9, 2006
Richard was a great friend to me and my family. I will always be grateful for his unwavering support. His love for life and wonderful sense of humor will be missed.
Ginny Donovan
April 9, 2006
Richard & I were classmates at Caribou High School (Class of '70). He certainly had a way of driving the teachers crazy and had a lot of fun doing it! Richard always liked to make people smile, and I will smile every time I think of him.
Marta Reidel
April 9, 2006
I was very fortunate to have met Richard when he lived in Florida. I would stay at his home and keep Nellie company when he traveled. Knowing that we shared the same passion for wine, he was always kind enough to leave a bottle out of his collection on the counter for me. Many times we shared a great bottle of red. Last night, some friends from our "wine club" got together and opened a bottle of Rafinelli Zin that Richard had given someone as a gift. We felt it appropriate to have a toast to him with a fitting wine. I feel certain that he would have approved of our choice! My heart goes out to Richard's family, especially his brother and best friend, Charlie. We were blessed to have known him.
Charlie Powers
April 9, 2006
Richard was my "little brother" as well as my best friend and dive partner. We have shared a lifetime of memories & good times & some not so good. He always invested 100% in everything he did, and was lucky to live his life to the fullest.. Simple words can not describe how sad I am to lose him.
Rest in Peace "little brother" and God Bless you..
Cheryl Gomes
April 8, 2006
Richard was like another uncle to me. My fondest memories are of camping with Richard as a child at Ocean Cove; I remember eating the abalone he caught and playing catch with him. Richard taught me about success, working hard, and how to pick a good bottle of red wine.
I miss you already, Richard.
Steve Canning
April 8, 2006
Dick was my first cousin (His mom Ella and my Dad Irving are bother/Sister). Dick and I grew up together is Caribou, Maine. As a young boy, I fondly remember gping to Dick's house and watch him dabble in electronic's. He was always busy making some sort of device and we would on a regular basis take trips to the local Radio Shack in Caribou to get components for the projects. I followed in Dick's footseps, and went to the same school as he did. New Hampshire Technical Institute in Concord, NH. I also followed him out to California and worked for him at Analog Solutions and then was the Sales Manager of his New company, Ultra Analog in Fremont California.
I lived with Dick for a short while when I first went to California and Dick also lived with me at my home in San Jose California. Dick introduced me to Skiing and we spent many weekends together skiing the Sierra's in California.
Needless to say, Dick and I were very close and I will miss him more than any of you can imagine.
My heart felt sympathy goes out to his mom, Ella whom I Love so very much.
Billy Powers
April 8, 2006
An awesome mentor, a wonderful frined, a great Uncle! Richard taught me so much about the value of others and the importance of building friendships. Richard always found the good in people and had a huge heart! Perhaps one of the greatest golfers I've ever known, I'll never forget the first opportunity to play with him --- we went to a gorgeous, prestigious club in the Melbourne area. After Richard hit a rocket 280 yards down the fairway to intimidate me, I teed it up and lets just say you would've thought me and a golf ball had never been introduced. Richard's smirk was the best mental intimidator while on the links.
Loved by many, it is my prayer that we can all learn the value of life and the art of relationship building from his short life.
Bill Powers
Nephew
Bill Powers
April 7, 2006
A great friend, an awesome mentor, a wonderful Uncle. Richard taught me that life is to be enjoyed and to treat others with respect. I have been amazed at how many people Richard touched in his short life... Rest in peace dear friend --- you will be missed and remembered by many.
Your Nephew,
Billy
Richard and his best girl, Nellie.
April 7, 2006
Richard with his brother Charlie and nephew Bill.
April 7, 2006
He always had such a great smile!
April 7, 2006
Richard at his second favorite sport...scuba diving was number one.
April 7, 2006
Richard dining out with friends.
April 7, 2006
Jim Noel
April 7, 2006
Richard was an unusually kind, thoughtful, and generous person - always looking for ways to help others. He will be greatly missed by many many people and forever remembered with loving thoughts and fondness.
Richard with me in Japan
April 7, 2006
Sarika Arora
April 7, 2006
Richard was a great friend and a wonderful mentor to me. His teachings have made a significant difference in my life. His death is a big loss. I am praying for him and his family. May he rest in peace.
Randy and Brenda Roberts
April 7, 2006
The world won't be the same without Richard. Our condolences to his family in this time of sorry
Jack Poe
April 7, 2006
Richard's untimely passing is a message to all of us to enjoy life in the moment. I had the opportunity to do battle with Richard in something he loved - golf - and the next time I slice one in the water I will think of Richard standing behind me saying, "gee too bad, Jack, tee up another one."
Best wishes to Richard's family. We will greatly miss him at Semtech.
Regards,
Jack Poe
Chairman, Semtech Corporation
Skip Effler
April 7, 2006
My heartfelt condolences to Richard's mother Ella, brother Charlie, and the rest of Richard's family. Richard worked for me only a few months, but made extraordinary contributions to our company, and provided a positive influenced to many. Richard lived his life with integrity, common sense, goodwill, and a strong sense of achievement. I will miss his intellect, sense of humor, and passion for the good life. May God be with him.
Tami Young
April 7, 2006
I have known Richard primarily through our mutual friend, Joy. What I know about Richard is that he was a very dynamic person who lived life to the fullest. His having done so reminds me to do the same. I am greatly saddened that he is gone.
John Akerson
April 7, 2006
My condolences to all of Richard's friends and relatives. May he rest in peace.
Judy Gasperini
April 7, 2006
Working with Richard was always a pleasure. Richard and his family are in my prayers.
Fremont Chapel of the Roses
April 7, 2006
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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