Funeral Mass: Saturday, the 18th at 12:10 p.m. at St. Marys church
Philip James Paul Powers, 90, was born on August 8, 1919 in Worchester, Massachusetts.
Philip was a Navy veteran, brother, captain of a PT boat, worked as a social worker and fought hard for the rights of the poor and underprivileged. Before his arrival in Helena in 1972, he lived in Massachusetts, New York, Maryland and Vermont.
Philip is preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years Della Powers and his brother, William.
He is survived by his five children: Anne Taleff, Philip Powers II, William Powers, Michael Powers and Susan Powers.
He is also survived by ten grand children: Rachel and Claire Taleff, Philip, Steven and Brian Powers, Bridget and Fiona Powers, Sameer Powers, Miles and Erin Mayer and two great grandchildren: Olivia and Owen Powers.
Philip was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and served as lector for many years. Philip was a caring person who enjoyed his career as a social worker and he participated in social causes such as the National War on Poverty and the Helena Food Share Program. He earned a Bachelor's degree from the College of Holy Cross in 1931 and a Masters in Social Work from Boston University.Phil had a fun loving way of enjoying his friendships in Helena. Sometimes it was hard to tell if he was joking or not but he enjoyed playing a light hearted trick on his friends and never lost his sharp wit or sense of humor. He was a skier until his mid eighties and played tennis until age 89.He patiently taught his children how to ski and play tennis and always gave full support to his familys activities. He toiled endlessly in his garden and never gave up in spite of meager returns from the rocky soil and numerous deer raids. He also played a mean game of Scrabble, spoke Latin phrases regularly and finished off crossword puzzles daily. Phil was a great listener, never preachy, and had strong moral principles that guided his life and influenced others. He would not give advice, but helped one to think through a situation to find their own solution.
Phil had a lustful sense of adventure and relished his move west in 1972. With his cowboy hat, boots and a new barn, he proudly laid the foundation for his familys migration. He had a fulfilling life and he will be missed terribly by his children and grandchildren. He and Della traveled across the country more than a few times to visit their children, enjoyed a ski trip in Europe, and had many stories to share.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a contribution to the Last Chance Tennis Association, 2910 Skyway Drive in Helena, or to Helena's public library.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
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