Robert Ronald Powell, 87, of Vian, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home on January 31, 2025.
Born on February 27, 1937, in Dimmitt, Texas, Robert was the son of William Dewey and Leah Levina (Alldridge) Powell. He married Phyllis Lee Thanisch, and together they had four children: Robert L., William Dallas, Leigh Ann, and Leila Gaye. While they were alive, they remained connected through their children.
On August 19, 1989, Robert married the love of his life, Barbara Ferguson. They shared 28 wonderful years together until her passing on July 24, 2017.
Robert was drafted in 1960. He proudly served in the US Army Signal Corp for 2 years in France and Korea.
Robert dedicated much of his career to the cable industry, serving as the manager of the cable system in Norton, Kansas, for several years before becoming the Vice President of Operations at Karlin Communications Inc. in Great Bend. He took pride in his work and was well-respected in the industry before retiring.
A true jack of all trades, Robert had an incredible ability to fix almost anything—whether home repairs, mechanics, electrical work, or even baking in the kitchen. He was a selfless and compassionate man, always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. His strong sense of justice and kindness made him steadfastly advocate for others.
Robert was also a dedicated Boy Scout leader for many years, sharing his love of nature with his children and the young men in his troop.
In retirement, he found joy in caring for his loved ones, making quilts, gardening, creating art, studying genealogy, and deepening his faith through Bible study.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, William Dewey Jr., Merton, and Clifford; a sister Norma Joyce Hutchinson; his beloved wife, Barbara Powell; his beloved daughter, Leila Gaye; his former wife, Phyllis Leigh Powell; and several nieces, nephews, and a great-grandchild.
He is survived by his grandson, Tony Skidmore, of the home; his children, Robert L. (Rita) Powell of Farmington, NM; William Dallas (Jen) Powell of Lincoln, NE; and Leigh Ann (Jonathan) McCottry of Hays, KS; as well as stepchildren Judith Lynn, Robert James Lafoon, and Joyce Marie Priesman.
Robert’s legacy continues through his grandchildren: Rudy (Lavonne) Gallegos of Farmington, NM; Ray (Melissa) Powell, Carlsbad, NM; Brooke (Arthur) Shikhman of Brooklyn, NY; Michael Powell of Kansas City, MO; Mikaela (Ethan) Henderson of Hays, KS; Trace (Samantha) Brackney of Lenexa, KS; Beau Brackney of Hays, KS; Hannah (Dakota) Ball of Texas; Sarah Evert; and Faith (Zane) Sherrer of Lincoln, NE. He was also blessed with 10 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Tahlequah, OK, on February 27, his birthday, to honor Robert’s memory.