Obituary of Michael Powell

Schenectady - Michael (Mike) S Powell passed away quietly in the comfort of his own home in Schenectady, New York on Sunday July 6th, 2014 at the age of 71. Mike was brought into this world by his loving mother Marion Gormley Powell on June 1st, 1943. He lived an examined life as a phenomenal photographer, a veteran of the Air Force, a published author and poet, an original computer programmer, an equestrian, a pilot, a philosopher and an adventurer. He was a man who could step out into his backyard to find adventure, a man who saw something he'd want to do and did it. His most recent adventure was serving at the Dudley Observatory. Mike was survived by his four children and seven grandchildren: daughter Lisa Yawn, husband Jim and their sons Jesse Michael Roberts, Russell Edward Roberts of Schenectady, NY; son William Powell, wife Lisa and their children Bijou, Aiden and Cathryn of Port Orange, FL; daughter June Taglia, husband Carmen and their son Augustino of Chicago, IL and daughter Sara Yoder, husband Brad and their son Kael of Waynesboro, VA. He was also survived by his dear cousin Sally Plass of New York, NY; and predeceased by his loving mother, Marion, his lovely aunt Florence Gormley Plass, and his supportive Uncle William Powell. A graveside service will start this Saturday, July 12th at 10:30AM at Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery in Schenectady, where Mike's remains will be buried with his mother. A celebration of Mike's life will follow the service and will be at the Stockade Riverfront Park, all who knew him are welcome to attend. Donations can be made to a foundation created in Mike's name by the Mountains to Miracles Foundation. The address to send donations is PO Box 137, Tribes Hill, NY 12177. The foundation will help veterans in need. Mike left his fingerprints in so many places and various forms. He'd want to remind everyone to carpe diem.