Frederick Edward Powers

Frederick Edward Powers, 91, of Tipton, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on June 21, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 29th, at Fry Funeral Home in Tipton from 4:00–7:00 p.m., with a Rosary to follow. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30th, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Tipton, with burial to follow at St. Mary’s Church Cemetery.

Born on November 21, 1934, in Ossian, Iowa, Fred was the son of Joseph and Hildegard (Zweibohmer) Powers. He grew up in a close‑knit family with his sisters, Colleen (Delbert) Weber and Aletha Panek, and his brothers, Clayton (Fran) and Cloy (Marilyn) Powers. He graduated from Buck Creek High School in 1952, beginning a life marked by dedication, humility, and hard work.

On January 7, 1956, Fred married the love of his life, Patricia Dunne, in Dubuque, Iowa. After an adventurous honeymoon out East, they built a strong and loving family, raising four children: Kathleen (Stephen) Beardsley, Debra (Fred) Preze, Michael (Vickie) Powers, and Sheila (Todd) Pollock. Fred’s greatest joy came from his family, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Fred served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958. After his service, he returned to Iowa and farmed near Cedar Rapids from 1958 to 1960. In 1961, Fred and Pat moved to New Liberty, where they farmed until 1972. That same year, Fred purchased the New Liberty Elevator, working in fertilizer and grain until 1980. Never one to shy away from new challenges, he transformed the elevator into Powers Trucking, beginning with a single truck and growing the business to four semi’s between 1980 and 1997. In 1996, he began hauling for Ron’s Grain, continuing the work he loved until his retirement in 2010.

Faith and service were central to Fred’s life. He was a devoted member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Tipton from 1961 to the present day. He served on the Church Council for 10 years and on the Finance Committee for another 10 years, offering his time, leadership, and steady guidance. Fred was also a proud member of the VFW, dedicating 40 years to supporting fellow veterans and honoring those who served.

Throughout his life, Fred was known for his steady presence, strong work ethic, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. His kindness, gentle humor, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Fred is survived by his sisters, Colleen and Aletha, and his brother Clayton and sister-in-law Fran. He leaves behind his four children—Kathleen, Debra, Michael, and Sheila—as well as 13 grandchildren and 37 great‑grandchildren, all of whom were a source of immense pride and joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 68 years, Patricia; his brother, Cloy; and brother‑in‑law, Delbert Weber, nephews, Preston Spahn, Keith Powers & Mike Steffen.

Fred’s legacy lives on in the family he loved, the community he served, and the countless lives he touched along the way.