Joseph J. Pow

1937 - 2021

East Lyme - Master Chief Petty Officer Joseph J. Pow, a 32-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, passed away in New London, June 8, 2021.

A native of Bridgeport, Master Chief Pow joined the Navy upon graduation from Warren G. Harding High School, and volunteered for service aboard submarines. Assigned first to a World War II vintage diesel sub, he quickly demonstrated the attitude and aptitude needed for far more challenging assignments. As a result, he was hand-picked to serve as a member of the elite initial crew of the USS George Washington, the world's first ballistic missile submarine. It was during his tour aboard the Washington that senior officers began to recognize his leadership potential, and he was rapidly promoted to positions of greater responsibility. He earned the prestigious rating of Missile Technician, responsible for all aspects of weapon systems readiness, including equipment maintenance and crew training. Serving in both the Atlantic and Pacific fleets, he ultimately sailed aboard seven submarines, serving as the Chief of the Boat, the senior enlisted advisor to the sub's commander, on three of them. Between his tours of duty at sea, Master Chief Pow served as an instructor at a variety of professional development schools where he taught subjects ranging from missile guidance to leadership and management.

Off duty Master Chief Pow enhanced morale and welfare among his sailors through intermural athletics. Over the years he coached a number of championship teams in both basketball and softball, and he personally exemplified the motto "fighting fit" through his own career as a long-distance runner.

Upon retirement from the Navy in 1987, Master Chief Pow embarked on a new career with the Hartford Dispensary, an organization which focuses on providing a comprehensive program of treatment to individuals with substance abuse problems. After starting as a counselor, he was very quickly promoted to the position of Clinic Supervisor, where provided inspired leadership to a large staff of clinical and administrative health care professionals. He served in this capacity for over 20 years during which time his efforts had a profound impact on the lives of countless people struggling with substance abuse. He retired from this position in 2008.

Master Chief Pow was an avid golfer, and an enthusiastic fan of both the New York Yankees and the Connecticut Sun. For years he officiated sporting events at the Subbase through the Dolphin Association of Sports Officials. In 2017 he was inducted as a life member of the Holland Club, an organization of former sailors who were qualified as submariners over 50 years ago.

He was predeceased by his daughter Laura; and daughter-in-law Jill. Master Chief Pow is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Ann; his son Joseph; daughter Susan; son-in-law Kim; nine grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. This wonderful family is his greatest legacy.

Calling Hours will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. June 13, 2021, at Fulton-Theroux Funeral Service, 13 Lake Avenue, Niantic. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. June 14, 2021, at St. Matthias Church, 317 Chesterfield Road in East Lyme. Burial will be held at noon June 14, 2021, at East Lyme Cemetery, 150 Boston Post Road, East Lyme.

Donations in memory of Master Chief Pow can be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, or to St. Matthias Church.