William J. Powers Jr

William J. Powers Jr (Bill), 76, of Ann Arbor died Thursday July 30, 2020.  He was born on April 1, 1944 in Chester, Penn., the second son of William J. Powers and Ernestine “Fifi” Powers (Demeglio) who both preceded him in death.  He graduated from Saint James High for Boys in Chester, Penn. with the Class of 1962.

He began a career with Hoover Universal in 1965 and continued there after they were acquired by Johnson Controls. He was the quintessential Company Man and served them well for over 40 years. During his tenure, he had a profound impact on the careers of many people by serving as a mentor in the art of negotiation and labor relations.  He retired as the Vice President of Labor Relations for North America in 2006.  Bill also served our country for eight years as a member of the Army National Guard.
In 1960 he met the love of his life, Nancy Depew, and they wed in 1965.  Bill called Nancy his girlfriend throughout their marriage and truly lived out the wedding vows repeated by so many.  He loved, respected, honored and cherished her until his death.

In addition to Nancy, Bill is survived by his sons William (Bill) Powers (Janee Garza) of Cement City, Mich. and Michael Powers of Trinidad, Colo.  He is also survived by his brother Michael Powers of Fort Worth, Texas, sister Patrica “Patty” Chazin (Barry) and his grandkids, Zachary Powers (Sabrina Lividini), Zane (Ally Shaffer) Powers, Jamin Palmer (Callie Jones), Reeve Powers, Ridge Powers, Isis Powers, great-grandkids Brooklynn, Peyton, Gunner and Tate plus many cousins, nieces, and nephews. As well as his many close friends such as Lisa DeBone (Dave) and Ralph Lassel.

Bill enjoyed traveling and he and Nancy went many places including Hawaii and countless trips to Las Vegas over the years. He was a passionate Frank Sinatra fan and even named his beloved cat Frankie. During his working years he maintained an impressive tie collection and, after retiring, a fun sock collection. He truly enjoyed the Halloween parties that he and Nancy hosted for years and any opportunity to fit as many people into his home as possible for a “cold drink” and a laugh.

Bill was a class act and led his family with strength and pride. He had a sharp wit and loved a good laugh. He was a true Italian who enjoyed family, food, and fun all the way to the end.  He was admired by many including life-long and dear friends too numerous to mention.  His legacy of always taking care of family (and those fortunate enough to be treated like family) will live on in those who loved him.

To quote his favorite musician, “He faced it all; he stood tall and did it his way.”  His way will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

According to his wishes cremation has occurred.  Due to COVID-19, a funeral service will not be held but friends and family may share memories and condolences at neptunesociety.com/. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the American Diabetes Association.  A celebration of life may be planned in the future, circumstances
allowing.  However, we are positive “Pop Pop” would encourage you to celebrate your life and family every day.