Charles A. Powell

Born on October 6th, 1942, to Howard and Geneva, Chuck was raised in a home that valued family, service, and education—principles that shaped his life. His father, a steady and principled man, instilled in him integrity and a deep sense of responsibility, while his mother’s warmth and encouragement provided a strong foundation.

The youngest of four brothers, Chuck looked up to Howard, William, and Robert, each of whom influenced his character. He shared a love of sports and music with Bob while Howard and Bill’s military service inspired his own sense of duty.

Chuck graduated from New Trier High School in 1960 and went on to Princeton University (Class of 1964), earning an A.B. in History. At Princeton, he was actively involved in Chapel Deacons, Baseball, Basketball, Football-150’s, St. Paul’s Society, and Cap and Gown, forging lifelong friendships. After graduation, he worked in Washington, D.C., for Congressman Donald Rumsfeld before attending Northwestern University School of Law, where he earned his J.D. in 1967.

Following law school, Chuck answered the call to serve. Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at Ft. Benning, he served as a First Lieutenant with the 1st Infantry Division in Vietnam (1967–1970), earning the Bronze Star with two Oak Leaf Clusters for his bravery and leadership.

Returning to Chicago in 1970, Chuck embarked on a 40+ year legal career. He clerked for the Chief Judge of the Cook County Circuit Court, then served in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office before co-founding Powell & Reilly, a respected tax law firm. Later, he became Senior Counsel at Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg, LLC, where his legal acumen and mentorship were deeply valued.

In 1978, Chuck married Promilla Roy-Singh in Bangkok, Thailand. Together, they raised four sons: David (b. 1979), Mark (b. 1981), and twins Matthew and Lewis (b. 1984).

Chuck’s life was defined by his boundless energy, deep love for people, and unwavering commitment to family and community. Known for his impeccable memory, gift for storytelling, and collection of “mediocre” jokes that somehow always landed, he never met a stranger he couldn’t talk to. A lifelong admirer of Abraham Lincoln, Chuck embodied the values of integrity, wisdom, and leadership.

He poured his heart into coaching his sons in basketball, instilling lessons of teamwork, perseverance, and integrity. A dedicated mentor, volunteer, and steadfast friend, he sought ways to uplift others. His love of music, influenced by his brother Bob, remained a lifelong source of joy.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Howard, Bill, and Bob.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Promilla; his sons, David, Mark, Matthew, and Lewis; and many extended family members and dear friends.

In accordance with his wishes, Chuck will be cremated, and his remains will be placed at St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, where he had been a dedicated member since childhood.

A funeral service will be held at St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, 1140 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, Illinois, on March 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM, where friends and family will gather to celebrate his extraordinary life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Chuck’s honor to the Armed Forces Community Foundation (https://www.armedforcescf.org/ways-to-give.cfm) or St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church.

Chuck lived a full, rich life—one of laughter, kindness, and purpose. His stories, humor, and love will echo in the lives of those he touched. May his memory be a blessing.