Laura Lee Powers

Laura Lee Powers           

*** Please note: Memorial Service for Laura will be held Saturday, May 7, 1:00 PM at the Mancelona High School gymnasium.  9300 W Limits Rd, Mancelona, MI 49659 ***

Laura was born on August 2, 1948, in Lawrence, Kansas. She was the first born of Kenneth and Evelyn (Satterfield) Powers.

Laura has two children, Stephanie Lockman and Andrew Lockman (Elizabeth Ganser).  She often said being a mom was the most important and special job she ever had...until she became a grandma. Laura’s most treasured times were holding her grandchildren close and watching them grow. Jack, 13, and twins John and Noah, 11, (who live in Denver, CO) will miss celebrating birthdays and Christmas with MIM (Mom in Michigan). Laura was blessed with three nieces, Brooke Nelson (Don), Erin Urban (Jim), and Kate Powers. She is also survived by two siblings, Jim Powers (Cindy Candela), and Sandra Wilson (Barry).

Laura is also survived by many friends, including her companion of 10 years, Jim Taup. Her radiant smile, joyous laugh, and generous personality will be missed by many.

Laura went to school in Wayne, MI, and graduated from Wayne Memorial High in 1966. She attended Central Michigan University and majored in English. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in 1970. Laura furthered her education with a master’s degree and many additional scholastic hours.

The community of Mancelona, where Laura was the sole guidance counselor at Mancelona High for 27 years, mourns Laura’s passing. Laura was committed to education, service, and fairness to her students. Over the course of her career, Laura worked with thousands of Mancelona students and their families. She helped her students prepare for college, careers, and beyond. She also counseled them about school, family, and other life concerns. Guiding these students as they prepared to become independent adults was Laura's lifelong passion and calling. (Second only to being a mom and grandma). Countless students said, ‘I would never have graduated if it wasn’t for Ms. Powers’. Laura earned the OPIE award one year, “Outstanding Person in Education”.

Laura has always been a very active member of her community. She participated in Meals on Wheels, served Community Dinners, volunteered at the library, even serving on the library board. She has also been a strong supporter of Mancelona Ironmen athletics, even well into her retirement.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan https://www.hom.org/donations/ , Alzheimer’s association https://www.alz.org/?form=alz_donate , or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements have been handled by the Mancelona Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign her online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.