Gary R. Powers

Weare, NH:  Gary R. Powers 72, passed away Thursday, November 16, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Hanover, NH, on May 18, 1951, he was the son to the late Dorrance and Arliene (Durant) Powers. Gary was raised in Norwich, VT and attended school in both Norwich, VT and Hanover, NH. After graduating from Hanover High School and being involved in his community, Gary proudly enlisted in the Marines Corps and served his country during the Vietnam War from 1969-1972. After returning home from service, he enrolled in classes to work towards his degree in mechanical drafting while also working full time. He continued his educational journey throughout his life taking civil engineering classes while raising his family. He went on to earn his degree in Mechanical Engineering from NHTI in Concord, NH. Through Gary’s professional career each position was a stepping stone that allowed him to advance and grow in his field. Gary enjoyed every position he held and was proud of the work and knowledge he gained at each employer. He retired from engineering from Creare, Hanover, NH in 2012.

In 2004 Gary was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. He accepted his diagnosis with dignity and grace, adapting to the challenges of the disease. Gary was able to continue his active lifestyle by participating in activities at home as well as with the VA Recreation program, Northeast Passage and New England Disabled Sports.

A true outdoorsman, he enjoyed many activities including hunting and fishing. Gary was a competitive athlete who enjoyed many sports including skiing, basketball, running, biking and golfing.  He also volunteered as a coach for many years while his children attended school. Besides enjoying sports, he also was an avid cribbage enthusiast which he enjoyed with many family and friends until his last days.

Gary will be remembered most for his sense of humor and his loving devotion to his wife, children and grandchildren. Some of his favorite memories were those made traveling on cruises with his wife and spending time with his family.

Gary is lovingly remembered by his wife of 51 years, Susan (Cardin) Powers and their dog Ruby; daughter, Emily St. Jean and her husband, Dan of Manchester; sons, Matthew Powers and his wife, Jessica of Belmont, Zachary Powers and his wife, Karen of Northfield and Jordan Powers and his wife, Cassi of Franklin; 8 grandchildren, Griffin, Abbey, Rowen, Jade, Zoey, Nora-Rose, Logan and Hunter; five siblings, Phyllis Wheeler and her husband, Curt of W. Lebanon, Janis Foley of Ellington, CT, Dale Powers Sr. of Manchester, sister-in-law CarolAnn Powers of Manchester,  Karl Powers and his wife, Liz of Manchester, Timothy Powers and his wife, Diana of Summerville, SC and brother-in-law Russell Cardin and his wife Clare Yerburgh of Manchester, NH; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. In addition to his parents he is predeceased by his brother, Neil Powers.

SERVICES: calling hours will be held on Tuesday (11/21) from 12pm-2pm with a funeral service to follow promptly at 2pm at Lambert Funeral Home, 1799 Elm St. Manchester, NH. Burial will be held on Monday (11/27) promptly at 12pm at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, 110 DW Highway, Boscawen.*  For those that wish, memorial donation may be made in his name to Granite VNA 30 Pillsbury St., Concord, NH 03301 or to Northeast Passage, 121 Technology Drive, Suite 161, Durham, NH 03824 or a charity of your choice. To leave a message of condolence, please visit www.lambertfuneralhome.com.