Michael Paul Powell, age 84, of Macomb passed away on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at Bickford of Macomb. He was born February 27, 1942 to Paul S. and Lola (Wells) Powell in Colchester at the home of his maternal grandparents. Mike married Sally Joanne Whitaker at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Macomb on September 18, 1960. Sally died on July 1, 2018. Mike married Roberta (Bertie) Baumgardner on June 17, 2019. Bertie died on February 21, 2022. Mike married Zelma Swanson on November 30, 2023; she survives.
In addition to his wife Zelma, he is survived by son Tim Powell of Wisconsin; son Toby (Marie) Powell of Arvada, CO; daughter Cindy (Troy) Forman of Columbus, IN; grandson Wade (Megan) Forman of Westfield, IN; and great grandson, Jack Forman of Westfield IN. He is also survived by Zelma’s children: Cindy (Stephen) Taylor of Macomb, IL; Leanne (Sam) Stephenson of Oklahoma; Billy (Kim) Oliver of Georgia; 7 step grandchildren and 9 step great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Lana Wheeler, wife Sally, wife Bertie, and special friend Patricia Shryack.
Mike grew up in Colchester and graduated from Colchester High School in 1960. He and Sally operated Mike Powell Construction together for over 50 years.
He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Macomb and was active there in many ways over the last 60 years – including participating in Bible study and serving as a church elder. He also volunteered his time with the Boy Scouts when his sons were young, including as a leader of a trip to the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico.
In their almost 58 years of marriage, Mike and Sally took many trips throughout the US with their young family and then internationally with church friends and family later in life. Mike was a master craftsman, both in his work and in leisure activities, enjoying model railroads and airplanes in retirement.
Mike and Zelma enjoyed 3 years together living life to the fullest doing what they loved the most – traveling, attending church and spending time with family. Mike was important to all of Zelma’s family and will always be known affectionately by them as Papa Mike.
Services will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church at 11 am on August 20, 2026. Pastor Chris Hull will officiate. Visitation will be immediately prior to the service starting at 10 am at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church.
Dodsworth Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Please sign the guestbook and leave condolences at www. dodsworth.com
