Thomas Dean Powers

Thomas Dean Powers

March 24, 1954 - Nov. 29, 2021

Thomas Dean Powers passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family in his home in Deer Park, Wash. on Nov. 29, 2021. Tom was reunited in heaven with his beloved mother and two brothers after a long battle with cancer.

Tom is survived by his wife of 23 years, Jeanne Powers; his father, Walter Powers (age 96); five children: Tab, Dulcy, Melony, Anna and stepson, Zach; five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and Patty (mother of Dulcy and Melony).

Thomas Powers, the youngest of three boys, was brought into this world in Boulder, Colo., on March 24, 1954, by parents Walter Lee and Myrtle Mae Powers.

Tom lived an adventurous life spending most of his childhood in Cheney, Wash. where he made many lifelong friendships. Growing up, he traveled the world with his parents and brothers, Jim and Wally, attending 2nd grade in Korea, and 7th grade in England. Tom graduated from Cheney High School in 1972 and worked on the railroad before graduating from the University of Oregon with his Bachelor of Arts in Developmental Psychology. He went on to attend Eastern Washington University and earn a Masters in School Psychology. He practiced as a school psychologist for 38 years and was a fierce advocate for his students. Tom was very proud of the RMS News program, Suicide Prevention and Communication Groups that he ran each year at Riverside Middle School. He impacted hundreds of students, staff and families. Tom retired from Riverside Middle School in 2018.

Tom had a true love and appreciation of music, mastering the art of the Fiddle, and loved to be outdoors working on his pond, Priest Lake cabin, and all the other projects that make a place feel like home.

Tom seized every moment and opportunity that came his way during his final months. From time at the family cabin in Priest Lake Idaho, Hawaii, Manzanita, Ore., to a final trip to Southern France and England with the love of his life, Jeanne.

Tom touched so many lives in so many ways through his truly magnificent life. He felt truly blessed to have lived such a fulfilling life. His genuine, unique, creative, and caring personality will be missed by all who knew him.

There will be a service for Tom on Sat., Jan, 8, 2022, at 11 am at the Cheney Congregational Church, 423 N 6th St. Cheney. Please join us in person or virtually.

Tom loved a good party and we are planning a celebration of his life in the near future. We will post details.