Powell, Lee 1932-2024 St. Joseph, Mo.

By NewsPress Now

Aaron Lee Powell Jr., of St. Joseph, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on March 5, 2024, embraced in the love of his family.

Lee was born May 8, 1932, to Aaron Lee Powell Sr. and Margery Gorton Powell, both deceased.

He graduated from Central High School in 1950 then joined the Navy during the Korean conflict, in which he was proud and happy to serve ice cream, one of his life-long passions, from the gedunk (ship’s snack bar).

Upon honorable discharge from the Navy, Lee attended a year at the University of Kansas then worked as an architect’s draftsman, later passing the boards to become a full-fledged architect. He worked in that capacity until the age of 78 and was the draftsman or architect for many of the buildings in and around St. Joseph, including LeBlond High School and two buildings at Missouri Western State University.

On Aug. 3, 1957, Lee married Janice Lyon and although they divorced after 39 years of marriage, they remained good friends and spent holidays together with family. They had four children: James, Julie, Jon (deceased), and Amanda.

Lee became a leader for the Boy Scouts of America when his son, Jim, joined. He continued as the beloved leader of Troop 216 for many years, was a member of the Tribe of Mic-O-Say and the Scouting adult leadership program Wood Badge, and eventually received the Silver Beaver Award, which recognizes Scouters of exceptional character who have provided distinguished service.

Lee is predeceased by his parents, Aaron and Margery Powell, and an infant son, Jon Charles Powell.

Lee is survived by his loving children: James Lee Powell, Julie (Jonn) Casey, and Amanda (Scot) Eldridge; six grandchildren: Andrew (Megan) Halter, Jessica Casey, Sean Casey, Jackson Casey, Todd Casey, and Lottie Eldridge; and four great-grandchildren: Kenna Evans, Cole Sowards, Keegan Cook, and Kalli Cook.

Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations sent to the Boy Scouts of America, the Alzheimer’s Association, or a charity of your choice.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.