August 6, 1940 – February 26, 2025
ROCHESTER – Donald Patrick Powell Sr., a devoted family man, military veteran, and beloved community member, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2025, at Unity Hospital in Rochester, NY, at the age of 84.
Born on August 6, 1940, in Niagara Falls, NY, Donald lived a life defined by his unwavering dedication to God, his country, his family, and his community. He was the cherished husband of Phyllis A. Clark Powell, whom he married on April 25, 1964. Together, they raised a family filled with love and pride, including their four children: Donald (Vicki) Powell Jr. of Rochester, Dan (fiancée Rosie Mateos) Powell of Brockport, Donna (Tim) Coughlin of Hamlin, and Dawn Chmura of Hamlin. Donald was also a proud grandfather of ten grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward. He is survived by his brother, Tom (Linda) Powell of South Carolina, sister in-law Janet (Chip) Perretta of Watertown, and brothers in law Garth (Nancy) Clark of Buffalo NY, and Allen Clark of Utah.
Donald was predeceased by his parents, Irving Powell and Emily Kuntz Powell, his beloved granddaughter Jordon Powell, his sister Margaret “Peggy” Rossiter, his brother in-law Doug Clark and sister in-law Elene Farmer.
A proud veteran, Donald served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1959 to 1963. During his service, he earned the rifle sharpshooter badge and the Good Conduct Medal. After his military service, Donald dedicated over 25 years to the Rochester City Police Department, where he rose to the rank of Police Sergeant. Upon retiring, he continued his commitment to the community by driving a school bus for the Kendall Central School District for 30 years—a job he deeply cherished for the opportunity it gave him to interact with children and contribute to their safety and growth.
Donald’s love for his family extended to the many joys he found in his personal life. He was an avid gardener, taking pride in his meticulously maintained lawn and his beautiful garden. His collection of U.S. Marine Corps memorabilia was a reflection of his lasting pride in his military service. At home, he found companionship and comfort in his pets, Paco the dog and Finnegan the cat.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Sweden Town Lodge, 4671 Redman Road, Brockport, NY. Friends, family, and all whose lives were touched by Donald are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Donald’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Donald’s legacy of love, service, and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community.
Arrangements are being handled by H.E. Turner & Co., Inc., 51 South Lake Avenue, Bergen, NY 14416. To leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle in Donald’s memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.
