Charles W. "Bill" Powell

Charles W. “Bill” Powell, 86, passed away on August 4, 2025, in West Lafayette, Indiana. He was born on August 30, 1938, in Muncie, Indiana, to the late David and Reba Powell.

Bill was an IHSAA Hall of Fame Swim Coach. He started the North Central boys swim team and the Washington Township Swim Club in 1972, and was the head coach for the boys’ team for 23 years. Bill led North Central High School to their first state swimming title in 1983. His teams also finished as runners-up in 1982 and 1987. During his tenure, his teams produced 4 relay titles and 8 individual swimming state champions, a number of state record holders and high school All-Americans, a string of undefeated dual meet seasons and a fifth-place national ranking. He led teams to numerous county titles and twelve sectional titles over his career.

As an art teacher, his skill in ceramics and influence with young people helped him impact hundreds of students. His love of art was always a motivator, especially later in life when he and his wife would travel the U.S. buying antiques and visiting museums and national parks. He and Sunny filled their home with beautiful pictures, sculptures, and architectural curiosities that made it feel like a museum.

Bill is survived by his three sons, Tim, Scott, and David as well as six grandchildren. He was preceded in passing by his brilliant and loving wife, Sunny.

A Visitation for Bill will be held on Monday, August 11, from 10am to 12pm, with a Funeral Service to follow at 12pm, at Flanner Buchanan – Oaklawn Memorial Gardens, 9700 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46250.