Thomas M. Powell

God saw he was getting tired and the cure was not to be. So He put his arms around him and whispered, “Come with Me.” With tearful hearts we watched him fade away. Although we loved him dearly, we could not make him stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hardworking hands to rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only take the best.

Thomas M Powell, who preferred to be called Tom, also known as “Chief” from his naval career and “Dad” by his wife and children. Tom proudly served 21 years in the United States Navy, retired as an E7 Chief Mechanics Mate. He was a Deep Sea Salvage Diver, and he wore that ol’ school 250lbs diver’s suit. He had many great memories of his naval service and would tell a great story to a stranger. Tom was married to Charlotte for nearly 64 years, they were inseparable from the day they met in 1955. Tom sure loved his wife Charlotte, otherwise known as “Mom,” his ultimate goal was to ensure she had everything she wanted or needed and was well taken care of even in his passing. They had that one-of-a-kind love, always catering to each other’s every need. You don’t see a love like theirs in today’s world. He sure loved her with all his heart, along with all their four legged furry friends they’ve shared over the years. In the early years, Tom & Charlotte shared their love of square dancing and family camping trips were a family event that they all enjoyed.

In their later years, they often visited the Zoo, Estes Park & Glenwood Springs mineral pool to relax. Tom loved to eat and always invited others to join him and “Mom” as they scheduled Monday nights at Blackhawk for all you can eat lobster, shrimp and prime rib, their monthly visits to Warren Tech with his church family and let’s not forget about Taco Tuesdays! When family came into town, we always made it to the family landmark, Casa Bonita.

Tom & Charlotte were the King and Queen of festivals as they enjoyed the craft shows, Indian art, cars & gadgets. Tom always made sure his wife made it to the Stock Show & State fair each year, and always enjoyed the rodeo together. Tom was a big fan of John Wayne and cowboy movies, he enjoyed Nascar, the Broncos and Big Band music including the Rat Pack, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash & Glen Miller. Most of all, Tom loved his family.

Tom and Charlotte had three beautiful children, Linda, Lisa & Laura. They had seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren that they both love dearly. Tom & Charlotte were no stranger to the road as they enjoyed traveling the world visiting family from coast to coast in their R.V., they enjoyed taking their grandchildren along for the ride. They enjoyed trips to Disney with all seven grandchildren and even a trip with their great granddaughter Brieonna. Tom & Charlotte had a very giving heart, they took in family members over the years to help them get back on their feet and sharing the love of our Lord and Savior to guide them in the right direction. They found strength and community in their church family and were faithful member of their congregation. Tom may have been tough, although he was a very loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather that wanted forgiveness. For all of this and so much more, he will be forever remembered and greatly missed.

Navy’s stern call: Faith, courage, service true, with honor, over honor, over all. Until we meet once more Anchors Aweigh!