Cornelius "Neil" Patrick Powell

Neil Powell 

July 8, 1931 – August 23, 2025 

Neil Powell, a man of extraordinary intellect, humility, and kindness, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the age of 94. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, and brother, whose life was defined by love, service, and leadership. 

Neil is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Louise Powell, his four children—David, Thomas, Catherine, and Robert—his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a wide circle of family and friends who cherished him deeply. 

Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, Neil was the youngest of five children. He carried his Midwestern roots and Irish heritage proudly throughout his life. A graduate of the University of Minnesota, both undergraduate and Law School, and Wayne State University earning an MBA. He served honorably in the U.S. Army in Tokyo, Japan. 

Neil’s professional journey began in corporate tax at General Motors in Detroit, where he met the love of his life, Lou. They married in 1959 and built a beautiful life together, raising their family across Detroit, St. Louis, and eventually Allentown, Pennsylvania. In 1968, Neil joined Air Products, where he served with distinction until his retirement in 1996, rising to the role of Executive and Corporate Officer. His leadership was marked by integrity, diligence, and a quiet strength that inspired those around him. 

Beyond his career, Neil was deeply committed to his community. He served on the Airport Authority at ABE (now Lehigh Valley International) and later volunteered at Lehigh Valley Hospital, advocating for patients navigating insurance challenges. His retirement years were filled with travel, family visits across the country, and cherished annual gatherings in Cape Cod and Allentown that kept his loved ones close. 

In 2021, Neil and Lou moved to The Carlisle Palm Beach in Florida, where Lou continues to reside. Neil remained devoted to his faith, his family, and the values that shaped his life. He will be remembered for his sharp mind, generous heart, unwavering work ethic, and the quiet grace with which he led. 

Neil Powell’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he nurtured. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. 

Father Adam Forno will celebrate a private Mass of the Resurrection with immediate family at Ascension Catholic Church on September 5th, 2025. 

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