FloraConverse — On Monday, Sept. 6, 2010, Audrey Powell, Converse, passed away at her home. She was 95 years old. She rejoins her beloved husband, Floyd Gilbert Powell, in heaven. She and Floyd were married on Feb. 2, 1936.
Audrey’s spirited character and enthusiasm for life made her a charismatic source of both wisdom and humor to those that knew her. Rarely one to shy away from expressing her opinion, her passion and individuality radiated in her role as family matriarch and voice of counsel to all that sought her advice. Her determined attitude and resolute demeanor often veiled her nurturing disposition and unceasing generosity. She was fondly thought of by many as being “Tough as Nails with a Heart of Gold.”
Her caring affection and adoring commitment was never more exemplified than by her marriage to Floyd. In 73 years of marriage, their dedication and affection toward one another was inspirational and constantly served to remind friends and family of the love and happiness that they shared. Audrey was most passionate about her family and especially enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren and hearing of their travels and experiences.
She enjoyed living life to the fullest and did extensive traveling by motor coach and cruise ships. She and Floyd visited all 50 U.S. states, Canada and Mexico, and maintained lake houses on Lake Tippecanoe for many years, entertaining family and guests throughout summers and on holidays. She took great pleasure in fresh flowers and would always smile brightly upon their gift or when gathering them from her own gardens.
She is survived by her daughter and caregiver, Sandra Marcele Powell; son, Thomas Ray Powell; daughter-in-law, Karen Tade Powell; grandchildren, Bart Gilbert (Sherry), Wendee Marcele Gilbert, Erik Gilbert (Christina), Mark Floyd Gilbert, Tade Joseph Powell (Robyn), Malea Powell (Michael Wojcik) and Tamier Ray Jones (Marshall Jones); and great-grandchildren, Audrey Ellen Schwartz, Ellen Ray Jones, Joseph Tade Powell and Alexander Christian Powell.
Additional family members close to Audrey include Elg Gilbert; Terry and Sheila Gilbert with Adam, Kristin, Devon and Lindsey; Chris and Dan Tharaldson with Nathan, Brennen and Emily; Mick and Tabatha Gilbert with Ashley and Brandon; and Jan and Sean O’Connell with Megan, Conner, Mackenzie and Ian.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Gilbert Powell; and by her son, Joe G. Powell.
Special appreciation goes to family friends that were instrumental to her care: Sarah Bush, Dee Dee Wood, Lynn Collins, Tammy Cox and Chaplain Steve Fleck of Guardian Angel Hospice. Additional caregivers include Pat Stanley, Barb Lakes, Alexandria Hughes, Danae Graber, Esther Graber, Rosemary Miller, Joanna Miller, Leann Wagler, Stephanie Stuller, Angie Boone, Jennifer Martin, Becca Bowlin and Jennifer Taylor.
Services will be 1 p.m. Saturday at the Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, Rybolt Chapel, 314 N. Washington St., Swayzee. Friends may call from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Converse Cemetery.
Memorials made be made to Swayzee Christian Church or favorite personal charity.
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