Robert “Doc” Powell, age 72, of Lake Benton, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, November 9, 2024. A private family graveside service was held at the Memorial Hill Cemetery in Lake Benton. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Lake Benton Area Community and Event Center in Lake Benton. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hartquist Funeral Home – Lake Benton Chapel.
Robert “Doc” William Powell, age 72, of Lake Benton, MN, passed away at home on November 9th, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on August 4, 1952, in Pipestone, Minnesota. He was the third of nine children born to Robert Wayne and Marilyn Royce (DeRue) Powell. H was baptized at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Pipestone. Robert spent the early years of his life in and out of the doctor’s office, earning the nickname “Doc,” which stayed with him throughout his life. Doc attended school in Pipestone through the 7th grade before moving with his family to a farm north of Verdi, Minnesota. He graduated from high school in 1970 and went on to study for a year at Southwest State University in Marshall, Minnesota. On October 11, 1975, he married Diann Kuhn in Lake Benton, Minnesota. Together, they shared a love-filled marriage of nearly five decades and raised two children, Jodi and Adam. Doc’s career included seven years with Olin Flex Straw and 13 years at Buffalo Ridge Ranch, where he was recognized as the #1 pork producer for his meticulous records and dedication. He later worked for New Horizon Feeds and, in his retirement, enjoyed taking on odd jobs, especially his time with Roggenbuck Tree Service. Known for his work ethic, Doc approached every job with energy and commitment. Outside of work, Doc found joy in simple pleasures. He was an avid softball player, a dedicated third baseman, and an enthusiastic bowler. When he wasn’t working, he loved spending time with his family, taking drives with his wife, Diann, and enjoying time with their dogs. He also enjoyed fishing, and spending countless hours in the outdoors. Doc’s memory will be cherished by all who knew him as a dedicated family man, a hardworking soul, and a true friend. He leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and laughter, and he will be dearly missed.
Doc is survived by his wife, Diann; his children, Jodi (Alan) Riedel and Adam (Sarah) Powell; and his grandchildren, Noah (Megan) Greer, Zoey Greer, Lucy Greer, Colton Powell, and Charlie Powell. He is also survived by his mother, Marilyn Powell; siblings, Teresa (Bob) Waldeisen, Mark (Connie) Powell, Mike (DeVonne) Powell, Jo (Mark) Knutson, Barb Powell, Tom (Elisa) Powell, Lisa (Lonnie) Willert, and Shelly (Bob) Bigford, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Powell; his grandparents, Frank and Dora Powell, and William and Gerti DeRue; one niece, Alicia Vos; and his cat, Sammy, who brought him much joy.
