We have lost a true American hero. CW4 (Ret) William D. “Don” Powers passed away at his home in Huntsville on June 15, 2017. He was 83 years old.
He enlisted in the Army as a teen and advanced in the Corps of Engineers, becoming a paratrooper and later a pilot. Don loved flying rotary wing, especially the Sikorsky Skycrane, for which he flew during his three tours in Vietnam. His awards included the Distinguished Flying Cross, Silver Star, three Bronze Stars, Purple Heart, and numerous air medals. He was a Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 2201.
Don enjoyed tinkering on cars and boats, watching TV shows from the 60s and 70s, and spoke often and highly of many accomplishments of his grandchildren.
Don leaves behind his beloved wife of 45 years, Annie; three sons: Jack (Sharon) Powers, Robert (Stacia) Powers, and Todd (Miriam) Buechter; and grandchildren: Lindsay, Hannah, Amanda, Sarah, Kate, Karl, Josh, Star, and Jennifer.
He was well known for his untiring work for his fellow veterans. Don will be sorely missed.
The family will receive friends Tuesday, June 20th from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Berryhill Funeral Home. Memorial service will follow at 11:00 with John Crocker officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either the Huntsville Humane Society or the Military Order of the Purple Heart.
