It was on May 3, 1952 in Hayward, CA that Gary John Powell was born to John and Edythe Powell; same day as his older brother, 5 years apart. When you’d ask him his name, he would say “Gary J.”
Gary graduated from Manteca High School class of 1970. He worked various jobs, including being a ranch hand, wood chopper, Libby-Owens-Ford to mention a few and eventually retiring from Modesto Steel after almost 30 years on the road, making deliveries most of that time.
Gary could be a lot of fun with family and friends, but he also enjoyed his alone time by riding his horse - a true passion – in either the back country, trail rides, or across the desert. His other hobbies included fishing with a dog by his side, scuba diving in the deep blue sea, reading a book, and listening to the radio. Gary also enjoyed sitting in the garage, visiting with a neighbor while watching the grass grow and cars drive by.
Gary was a member of three different Clamper Chapters: those being Estanislao Chapter No. 58, Tuleburgh Chapter No. 69, and Matuca Chapter No. 1849.
Among the many things, Gary’s favorite was being a father to Melissa and a proud grandfather “Far” to his grandkids Parker and Aria. He loved to spend quality time with them when they would come over to swim, or spending the last year going to Parker’s games. He was also a beloved husband. He and Debbie shared 27 wonderful years together.
Those he left with memories are his wife Debbie Fidalgo-Powell; daughter Melissa (Rocky) Rissetto, grandchildren Parker, Aria, and Baby Rissetto, due in July of this year. He is also survived by his brother Darrell Powell, sister Cheryl (Tony) Cardoza, brother-in-law Arnold (Terri) Fidalgo, as well as many nieces, nephews, and greats.
Those waiting and welcoming him will be his parents John and Edythe Powell; sisters Janice Powell and Julie Schmidt; brother Wayne Powell; niece Susie Powell; along with many aunts, uncles, grandparents and cousins. He was also preceded in passing by his father-in-law and mother-in-law Albert Sr. and Amilia Fidalgo, and brother-in-law Albert Fidalgo Jr.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association or any organization of your choice.
A Visitation will take place on May 14 at Lakewood Funeral Home in the Heritage Chapel, located at 900 Santa Fe Ave. in Hughson, CA. On May 15, a Funeral Service will be conducted at the same location at 11:00AM, followed by a Graveside Ceremony at Lakewood Memorial Park in Hughson, CA.
