POWERS, Charles Robert “Chuck” It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Charles (Chuck) Robert Powers of Burke, VA, on December on 27th, 2017 at the age of 55. Charles is survived by Christine (spouse), Andrea (daughter), and Alexander (son) all of Burke VA, Michael (brother) and Kathy Freeman (sister) and is preceded in death by parents Cornelius and Doris Powers all of New Braunfels. TX Charles was born January 24, in Monroe, Michigan. He graduated from Texas Tech University with a bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology and from the University of Texas with a Master’s degree in Software Engineering. Chuck’s career with Motorola began in Austin in 1988 and included a move to Chicago, then back to Austin, and finally to Burke Virginia where he was the Director on Engineering and Technology for Government Relations. Married to Tina in 1995, they were overjoyed with the arrival their children; Andrea in 1996 and Alexander in 1998. Both children remember him as a passionate driven man who encouraged them to relentlessly pursue their goals in life. Andrea a senior at the College of William and Mary and Alex is a sophomore at George Mason University were particularly inspired by the visits with their Dad to the Smithsonian Foundation and other scientific events. Chuck was gifted with extreme intelligence, a keen wit, and the ability to decipher the true meaning of people’s statements. He was a philanthropist, passionate about social causes including; science, education, Women’s causes and 1st amendment protections. He always stood up for those whom he felt were being treated unjustly or without merit. He loved fishing, making and drinking beer, simple conversation with family and friends, and was most comfortable in a quiet bar, with a good stout, surrounded by those close to him. An internment ceremony for family and close friends is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. January 6th at Onion Creek Memorial Park, 11610 Chapel Lane, Austin TX. A reception will follow at the Onion Creek country club, all are welcome to attend and celebrate Chuck’s life. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Ottawa Hospital “Guardian Angel Program” (www.ohfoundation.ca) or The Brain Injury Association of America (www.biausa.org ). The family would like to thank the Ottawa Civic Hospital Emergency and intensive care unit as well as the Motorola solutions group for their dedication, efforts, and compassion.
Published in Austin American-Statesman on Jan. 3, 2018