Edward Powers

POWERS, Edward Herbert, age 79, died peacefully on July 14, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. A beloved son, husband, father, cousin, and friend who touched many lives, Edward was born in Jersey City, NJ, on June 21, 1942 to Samuel (Sam) and Ruth (Handman) Powers. Edward (Eddie to childhood friends and Ed to those who met him later) was a force larger than life. His greatest loves were his wife, Phyllis, and his children and grandchildren. He also loved his large extended family and kept in touch with relatives from all over the world. In addition to family, Ed was a close confidant and trusted friend to many who appreciated his wicked sense of humor, his wisdom, and his good counsel. Ed moved from Jersey City, NJ, to Detroit, MI, when he was seven years old and later to Oak Park, MI. He graduated from Oak Park High School in 1957 and was in touch with his close-knit group of high school friends throughout his life. Ed received his BA in pre-legal studies from the University of Michigan in 1964 and his Juris Doctorate from The University of Michigan Law School in 1967. He met the love of his life, Phyllis Powers, on the steps of the University of Michigan Union while an undergraduate student. He and Phyllis married in May 1966 and recently celebrated their 55th anniversary. Right out of law school, Ed joined the law practice of Morris and Michael Pelavin - Pelavin and Pelavin - later Pelavin, Pelavin, and Powers, PC. Ed remained at that practice for many years and later opened a private practice. Prior to retiring, he became a Certified Civil Mediator and opened a successful mediation practice. He became a member of the American Bar Association and the Michigan State Bar in 1967, and was known throughout Genesee County and Michigan as a highly respected attorney. He was also a member of the Genesee County Bar Association, the American Trial Lawyers Association, and the International Association of Lawyers and Judges. He was licensed before the Bar of Michigan by the U.S. District Courts of the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan and was a member of the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals and the U.S. Supreme Court. Ed was devoted to leading a Jewish life and was a lifelong learner from when he first  insisted his parents send him to Hebrew school at age 10 until his final days when he continued discussions about Torah with his dear friends Rabbis Ely Shochet and Yisroel Weingarten. An active leader in the Flint Jewish community, Ed participated on boards and fundraising campaigns for the Flint Jewish Federation, the United Jewish Appeal, and Congregation Beth Israel. He chanted Torah frequently and blew the shofar at the synagogue on high holidays. Ed was also passionate about education and loved reading. His home was filled with books and educating his children and those around him was the highest priority. Ed loved poetry and theatre and often quoted lines from his favorite writers or sang songs from musicals. He enjoyed telling stories, making puns, and traveling. He especially loved going to Israel and visited with his family several times. Numerous long road trips and beach vacations were opportunities for Ed to scuba dive, snorkel, and do his favorite thing - learning about people - whether friends or strangers. He knew the life stories of almost anyone he ever met. Ed is survived by Phyllis (Alpern) Powers. He is also survived by their beloved children, son Alexander (Alec) Powers and daughter-in-law Jennifer Guthart Powers, daughter Jill Powers, daughter Annette Powers, and his grandsons Maxwell (Max) and Samuel (Sam) Powers and Noah Hamilton. Also left to cherish his memory are his cousin Gerry (Hoffman) Baron, who was like a sister to him, and many close friends and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Ruth and Sam Powers. In lieu of flowers or food, the family suggests a charitable donation in Ed’s memory: Congregation Beth Israel of Flint, Chabad of Eastern Michigan, The Flint Jewish Federation, or the charitable organization of your choice. A private graveside service will be held at Machpelah Cemetery, Flint, MI. In person visits will be limited to protect those who are immunocompromised. May Ed’s memory be a blessing and may he be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements by Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Road, Swartz Creek.