Bruce R. Powell, of Antigo, died Monday, March 23, 2020, at home. He was 68 years old. He was born December 13, 1951, in Kenosha, a son of Richard and Mary Etta (Holmes) Powell.
He was a graduate of Prairie High School in Racine. He attended Ripon College and Carthage College where he received a bachelor's degree in English with a minor in German. He continued his education at Oregon State University, where he graduated with his Master's Degree in Creative Writing.
After graduation, Bruce lived in Germany for five years teaching English to professionals at a business college and playing basketball with a close group of friends.
He was married to Christine Vincent in 1985 and moved to Antigo in 1987 where he raised his family and had a decades-long career at Antigo High School. During that time, he taught English, advised the National Honors Society and school newspaper, coached Forensics and oversaw the yearbook. His last seven years at the high school he also taught German, retiring in 2012. "Herr Powell" was passionate about learning and constantly challenged himself to improve his knowledge on behalf of his students.
He began writing stories at an early age and continued throughout his life. He also wrote political essays and created a number of board games. He enjoyed many sports and outdoor activities and instilled a deep respect for nature in his children. He will be rightly remembered by many for his steadfast dedication to environmental and social justice causes. In retirement, you could find him tending his garden, playing pool, and meeting friends to watch Jeopardy (which he won every time he watched).
He is survived by his three sons, Shane (Soulivan Vongmany) Powell, Vientiane, Laos, Jesse (Stacy) Powell, Escanaba, Michigan, Christopher "Kit" (Rachel) Powell and grandson, Theodore Powell, Seattle, WA; four brothers, David (Kathleen) Powell, Chicago, IL, Jim (Mira) Powell, Albuquerque, NM, Paul (Carol) Powell, Pleasant Prairie, WI, John Powell, Tampa, FL; a sister, Margaret "Maggie"(Jim Stephens) Day, Gillett, WI.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorial service will be held at a later date and announced at that time. Plant a seed instead of sending flowers; the family encourages memorial donations by visiting www.midwestrenew.org/donate.
Bradley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Services
There are no events scheduled.
Dear Powell family,
We're so sorry to read of Bruce's death and send our love & sympathies to each of you. We ran into him about a year ago and visited for quite awhile--even talked & remembered stories about Jesse & Kit from Cross Country days, and your music talents too! May the Lord be your strength, hope, comfort and peace during this difficult time,
Sarah & Dan Stoehr and family
I’m sorry for your loss. I had Mr. Powell for 10th grade English, and I have spent my professional career as a sophomore English teacher. I will never forget his call to us to “Be decent.” I think that is a lovely philosophy.
Heidi (Herman) Kretz
so sorry for the loss of our neighbor Bruce - we would see him quite often out playing pool or driving around in his red car. Deepest sympathy to his family
Ann & Dick Majewski
I send my deepest sympathy to your family on your loss. Many years ago, when I worked with developmentally disabled adults, I contacted Mr. Powell to ask about the possibility of having National Honor Society students volunteer to assist at Special Olympics area and regional tournaments. He not only agreed, but also invited me to come to the high school to share how this could be an opportunity for them, not only to volunteer and count toward their hours of community service, but also if they might be considering a career in working with the disabled. It turned out to be such a positive experience for the Special Olympic athletes, coaches as well as the NHS students. I will always be grateful for his assistance and insight. I could tell he and the students had a special connection and I'm sure they are grieving this loss along with you. He touched so many lives. May the memories of your time together bring you comfort and peace. Though it does sometimes hurt, LOVE never ends.
So sorry to here about your loss! Mr. Powell was an amazing teacher! I all so babysat for him a few times! My prayers are with you all!
Melisa (Miller) Baker
I'm so sorry for your loss. Mr. Powell was my favorite teacher.
Sincerely
Deanna (Amato) Ross
Powell family So sorry for your loss. I got to know Bruce at Reifs I enjoyed his company.. Dale Rank
This is heartbreaking. Mr. Powell was my favorite teacher. He is one of the big reasons I moved to Seattle for college. I owe him my gratitude. His passing is a big loss.
Bruce was a co-worker at Antigo HS with both of us for years. He was a passionate teacher and learner. He will be missed by many. Ours thoughts and prayers to family and friends. Jeanne and Jim Peters, Platteville. Formerly Deerbrook.
Kit, Jesse and Shane-
I’m so sorry for your loss.Your dad was one of the good guys. He was respected by students and colleagues. My your memories and the love from family and friends bring you comfort at this time.
Susan (gress) Larson
I am so sorry for you loss. He was my favorite high school teacher. Sincerely Theresa (Darr) David
Shane:
I so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Kathy (Berg) Kloes
Add to Your Calendar
Obit Checkin