Benjamin F. Powell

Benjamin Franklin Powell III, born November 7, 1936, died on January 4, 2024, in Victor Harbor, Australia.

On April 30, 1960, Ben married Barbara Jensen. Together they spent a wonderful life until her death in April 2021.

Ben taught at NorthCentral Technical College for 36 years. His profession as a teacher of adults was a craft which brought him joy, but as soon as he was able, he retired from the field of academics in pursuit of new learning, travel and play. A man of numerous hobbies, most of which he pursued for his whole life, brought him great enjoyment as well as a lifetime of "program". A sampling of his most passionate pursuits and interests were: Farming; Rosarian; Road racing; Performing; Woodworking; Bike touring; Track and Field; Finnish Saunas; Politics; Lumber making; Black Angus Animal husbandry; Construction; Outdoor enthusiast; Sailing; Horseback riding; Walking the beach; Triathlons; Hiking; Apple Cider; Lists; Baseball Catch; Music of all genres (enthusiastically brass instrumental); Puzzles; Public speaking; Cross Country Skiing; Musical Theater; Maple harvesting & sugaring; Itinerant preaching; Watching sporting events (especially those of his children and grands); Gut Bucket; Singing and song leading; Making and pursuing a "clean plan"; any adventures with Barbara; his brothers; his children; and "The Grands".

Ben is survived by his brothers: Glenn (Sue) Adelaide, Australia, Ken (Anne) South Hadley, MA, Roger (Consie) Ely, MN. Children: Dan (Heather) Powell Bellingham, WA, Andy (Joan) Powell Minnetonka, MN, Christy (Robb Stengl) Wausau, WI, Becky Powell Wausau, WI, 8 "Grands": Tyler (Kori) Powell, Mikkel (Jo) Powell, Elliot (Macy) Powell, Griffin Powell and (Marielle Close), Noah (Aila) Stengl, Ryker Powell, Benna Stengl and Gracia Powell. 7 "Greats": Ray, Gunnar, Lyla, Norah, Asher, Sonny and Mara. As well as many wonderful friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 22nd at 11:30 AM at First Presbyterian Church, Wausau, Wisconsin. A visitation will precede the service at 10:00 AM in the church parlor. In lieu of memorials Ben's stated request was to have each of you take your intended gift and spend it enjoying time with your family.