Leon Francis Powell of Hermiston passed away in Hermiston on Dec. 22, 2019 at the age of 88.
He was born on July 22, 1931 in Grand Island, Neb. to Raymond and Vera Coe Powell.
Leon lived in Grand Island, Neb. throughout his childhood, where he attended school and graduated from high school. After high school, he served in the U.S. Air Force for over three years. After his military service he moved to Los Angeles, Calif., where he began working for Pacific Bell Telephone as an information systems specialist. In 1970, he transferred to Hermiston, where he continued his work and had resided since. He retired from AT&T after 29 years of employment in 1984. He then worked for the Hermiston School District for an additional nine years.
Leon married Evelyn Jane Horner on July 29, 1950 in North Long Branch, N.J.
Leon enjoyed fishing, metal detecting, camping and RVing. He was a member of the Good Sam RV Club and the Eagles Lodge.
He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Evelyn; daughters, Barbara Powell and Patricia Powell Chard; sons, Robert Powell and Donald Powell; seven grandchildren; many great grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Marlyn Powell.
Viewing will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 27, 2019 at Burns Mortuary of Hermiston.
A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019 at Burns Mortuary Chapel, 685 W. Hermiston Ave.
Burial will follow in the Hermiston Cemetery.
Family suggests memorial contributions in Leon’s memory be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
To leave an online condolence for the family, please go to burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
