William Sherman Powell

Nov 12, 1929 -

Aug 6, 2023

William Sherman Powell, 93, passed away at his Anchorage, Alaska, home on Aug. 6, 2023. He was born in Saranac Lake, N.Y., on Nov. 12, 1929, to Sherman and Alice Powell. They moved to Anchorage in 1946. Bill, as he was known, graduated from Anchorage High School in 1948. He then graduated from the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 1953 with a degree in mining engineering. He next served over two years in the military during the Korean War.

He married Nancy Miller on July 2, 1953, in Anchorage, where they raised three sons.

He worked as the Territorial Mining Assayer in Anchorage until the late 1950s, when he and Nancy homesteaded near Talkeetna, Alaska, where the family still enjoys spending long relaxing days with friends. He then had a long career in construction working on projects throughout Alaska.

After retirement he enjoyed golfing, woodworking, spending time at the homestead, restoring old tractors and, most of all, spending time with his sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Bill was a kind and loving man who left a positive influence on many people.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, Sherman and Alice Powell. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Nancy; sons, John Powell (Terry), William Powell (Rachael) and Nathan Powell (Annetta); grandchildren, Sherman Powell, Hilary Fell, Calvin Powell, Ahnna Powell, William Powell and Kyle Powell; and great-grandchildren, Arthur, Walter, Timmy, Jack and Jameson.

There will be a private service at the family homestead. Arrangements have been entrusted to Legacy Funeral Homes.