Ernest Powell

Funeral Services were held 2:00 P.M., Saturday, March 5, 1988 at the Presbyterian United Church of Christ. Interment was held in the Aurora Cemetery.

OBITUARY: Ernest Harold Powell

E. Harold Powell, the son of Ernest and Isobel Harvey Powell was born on November 26, 1917, in Blue Springs, Nebraska. In 1936 he graduated from Barnston High School. He received a BA degree in 1940 from the University of Nebraska. From there he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving on the U.S.S. Nicholas as a sonar officer. He too great pride in being present at the signing of the Japanese surrender in Tokoyo Bay in 1945.

Following graduation from the University of Nebraska School of Law in 1946, he joined the Frank E. Edgerton Law Office in Aurora. This association continued until 1960 when he set up his own private practice. This practice became known as Powell & Powell Attorneys at Law when a son Michael joined him in 1980.

Through out his life Harold was active in promoting and exemplifying citizenship. He was presented the District Citizenship Award in 1986 by the American Legion. He was Commander of Lester S. Harter Post #42, Adjutant for 15 years, Hospital Equipment Chairman since 1947, County Government Day Chairman for 10 years assistant for 20 years, served on the Legion Scholarship Committee, Speech Contest and Boys State all for many years.

He served on the Aurora District 4R School Board as treasurer, was Assistant City Attorney, Police Magistrate from 1948-1977, and on the Aurora Airport Authority. He spoke often for Memorial Day Services in Aurora and surrounding towns as well as for Law Day in the Aurora Schools.

He was an active member of the Presbyterian United Church of Christ, served on the church council and was a faithful member of the church choir for 42 years.

His 40 year involvement with the Boy Scout Council and local troops brought him much joy and numerous awards. He also served on the Aurora Planning Commission, was a charter member of the Hamilton Community Foundation as well as president for one year, and served on the University of Nebraska Board of Regents.

In 1970 he passed the FAA Flight Exam and enjoyed piloting his Cessna 172 to visit grandchildren and to conduct business.

Harold continued to practice law until health dictated a semi-retirement in 1982. His daily visits to the office were interrupted only by hospital confinements. In February of this year he brought his office machines and work to his home.

Lydia, Harold's best friend and wife enabled Harold to spend the past months at home continuing the love and devotion they have enjoyed for 47 yeas. Children Ernie, Jim, Mary and Mike have all reciprocated the caring and devotion they have received from this loving union. Their memories will include attending church as a family, frequent family gatherings, annual vacations at Ottertail Lake, Minnesota and most joyous times the marriages of children and births of grandchildren bring.

Harold was lovingly called Ho by 11 grandchildren who will miss his hugs, piggyback rides and presence at church, at school and home. They include Kathy, Robert, Michelle, Marc, Beth, Chrissy, Joe, Jon, Sara, Debby and Tom. His parents, one sister and one brother preceded him in death. His is survived by sisters Lura, Mildred, Maude and Jean and many other relatives and close friends.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.