William "Bill" Powe, 79, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Monday, November 13, 2023. Survived by his wife of 56 years, his high school sweetheart, Josephine "Josie," son, William Jr. "Billy" and daughter Elisabeth "Lisa." Loving brother to his sisters: Rachel, Alice, Josie, Vio, Bobbie, Bonnie, Wallie and Isabelle. Preceded in death by his mother Isabel; sisters Linda and Fern; brother Rafael.

Bill was an unceasingly hard-working man. In his early years he worked in crop fields and loaded hay bales. After graduating from Pueblo High school in 1964 he worked for Cindrich Paving, applying asphalt, maintaining the city streets. Two years later he enlisted in the
Reserves, where he became and earned respect as a boxer. He won his first fight against a sergeant who was undefeated. He worked for the City of South Tucson where he retired as Director of Public Works.

He coached both his son and daughter at American Little League. Even as adults, as their sport interests expanded, Billy and Lisa could still find him in attendance. This year, Bill could still be found around town, going from one sporting event to another, supporting and cheering on his family and friends.

He began each morning reading his newspaper with his freshly brewed hot cup of coffee and doughnut. Then if a nice day was forecasted, he'd sit outside in his chair and soak up the warm sunshine.

In 1958, alongside his father-in-law, he became one of the founding members of the Hawks men's fast-pitch team that was in existence for 50 years. Many of the original players carried on the legendary Hawks name into football, basketball, baseball, bowling and slow-pitch. Bill
played football, basketball, was a bowler and an avid golfer. He welcomed all the competition along the way. After a round of golf, he loved hanging out in the clubhouse, with his golf buddies, enjoying a few cold ones. He was an outdoorsman, loved camping and fishing every
summer in the White Mountains. His love was tending the campfire. Always the first one up, he'd start the campfire and was known for making "the best" breakfast pancakes. His escape was to his irresistible slot machines. Occasionally, he could be found into the early morning hours at the casino. He loved playing poker and taking joyrides in his truck. He took great joy, taking spur of the moment road trips with his wife. Then for relaxation, he'd simply rock in his recliner and watch sports or his Westerns.

Very blessed with a large close knit family expanding several generations out, many laughs were shared. At family picnics, especially at Easter, no one dared to throw a water balloon at "Uncle Bill." By the end of the day, he'd retaliate, all in good fun, and you would most certainly pay the price.

Bill was very particular. Any food served to him better be hot, especially when it came to his favorites: carne con chile, crispy tripas, roast beef, whole beans with lots of cheese, egg foo young, spaghetti with meatballs and mashed potatoes with extra, extra gravy. He also,
undeniably, had a sweet tooth. He loved candy. As a kid, he'd hide a few in his bedposts, to later, stashing them in his truck console or golf bag.

He was quiet but not shy. Very punctual, strong minded and a person true to his word. He was a tough man but with a generous heart, never hesitant to lend a helping hand. He always spoke his mind and was quick to stand up for those weaker than him. In his early teens, after being separated from his family, he learned to be resilient.

After meeting his wife in high school, his only means of communication he had with his soon to be in-laws, was to learn Spanish. And after given a chance, he became very close with his father-in-law, who'd always say, "Ese Billy no le tiene miedo ni al diablo!"

He was extremely well organized, everything from his neatly folded clothes in his dresser drawers to his tool shed. He took pride in everything he owned. Many belongings lasting beyond their years, because of the care he put into them. His truck was spotless, his golf clubs clean and pristine. He was very dependable, a great person and thankful for all he had.

He performed random acts of kindness and was generous with his time and money. He made a lasting impression on people, and without trying, little did he know, was an influence to many. He was a man of honor and respected by all.

Bill was one of 12 children. He grew up with 9 sisters and was very protective of them, especially his sister, Josie who was a parent figure to him as a teenager. In 1995, he was reunited with his baby sister Isabelle, who he hadn't seen since she was 2 years old. He was
exceptionally devoted to his wife. There wasn't anything he wouldn't do for her. Always remembering to gift her with flowers and a card on special occasions, he would place them on the dining room table, so they would be the first thing she'd see in the morning. He was his
son's greatest fan and carried a soft spot for his daughter, who was daddy's little girl. He had a fondness for border collies, leaving behind his loyal dogs, Maya and Toby. We love you and miss you with all our hearts.

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Michael Duperret and Home Healthcare Nurse Brandy for all your unconditional care.

A condensed version of this obituary will be published in the Arizona Daily Star newspaper on
Wednesday, November 29th.