Obituary of Brian W. Powers

Brian William Powers, 71, of Williamstown, NJ, passed away suddenly, losing his battle to Melanoma, on March 26, 2022 . Brian is predeceased by his parents, William J. and Dorothy Powers (née Skokna), and his late brother, Craig W. Powers. He is survived by the love of his life, his devoted wife of 48 years, Deborah P. Powers (née Bonamase); his loving daughters, Brenda Powers-BenAttou (Alfred Meddings Jr.) and Michelle Megargel (Michael Megargel); and his adoring grandchildren, Zayne BenAttou, Coraleena BenAttou, Mason Megargel, Megan Megargel. He is also survived by his sisters, Patricia Moore (Alfred) and Maureen Finch (Robert), his two sisters-in-law, Arlene Hayman (Royden) and Cynthia Romeo (Late Phillip Romeo), ten nieces and nephews, and ten great-nieces and great-nephews all of whom loved him beyond measure. Brian was born on July 22, 1950, in Arlington, Massachusetts, grew up in Dresher, PA, until he was in high school, and lived in Mt. Laurel, Marlton, and Berlin, NJ, at various points in his life. He graduated from Lenape High School, Mount Laurel, NJ, in 1968 on the honor roll and in the upper 3rd of his class. Additionally, he attended vocational and trade schools to receive training and various licenses which propelled him into his automotive career. He proudly graduated as Valadictorian from Burlington County Vocational-Technical School the first year it was in session. By August of 1968, Brian was working as an auto mechanic for Broad Motor Ford, and after six years, he moved on to a more promising position at Merlin Motor (now Holman Lincoln Mercury), Camden, NJ. Soon after he was hired at Merlin Motor, Brian was promoted to shop forman, and by 1980, he had earned the position of Assistant Service Manager at Maple Shade Holman Lincoln Mercury. In 1990 he was promoted, again, to Parts and Service Director at Stratford Lincoln Mercury. He was proud of his positions and promotions because he knew they were based on the recognition of his strong work ethic. In 1997, Brian retired from the auto industry and fulfilled a life-long dream when he opened Centre Street Bagel Café on Long Beach Island For 18 years, he was known as the Bagel Man in Beach Haven, NJ, a title he wore proudly. He enjoyed being an entrepreneur and as the owner of the little shop, he loved the fact that he was able to work closely with his wife and girls for 18 years. Although he worked hard his whole life, “all work and no play” was never Brian’s life motto. He thoroughly enjoyed his days on his bowling league (which pre-dated his marriage to Deborah), he found joy in the simple things like target shooting and scuba diving, and he especially loved exploring his lifelong passions for cooking (considered quite the foodie by those who knew him best), photography (always taking and sharing photos, especially of his beloved grandchildren), and woodworking (building furniture for anyone who asked). Fortunately for his loved ones, he has left a legacy not only of memories, but of empirical evidence of his life and love for them. Brian had a kind face and an easy smile that lit up when he was with his family. He was warm, loyal, and fun-loving, a true gentleman who was raised when being a gentleman was important. Everyone who knew him, knew he was always willing to lend his advice and wisdom, often setting his own needs aside to help out a friend, a neighbor, or, especially, a family member. Brian never missed an opportunity to share a fun fact or ask how others were doing. He was always there for his family, a firm foundation through all of life’s storms. He will be missed forever. In Lieu of flowers, the family is asking that memorials be sent to Deborah Powers through Venmo: @Deborah-Powers-37, which will be used to support funeral and unimaginable medical expenses. Deborah will appreciate any amount you are able to share. The family of Brian W. Powers wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the staff at Cooper University Healthcare System, Dr. Roshal at Jefferson, our amazing villages of family and friends, Brian’s coworkers and employees in the Holman Industry, his employees and community members from Beach Haven, and a myriad of others without whom we could not have survived this last trial. You are magnificent and more important than you’ll ever know. We welcome family and friends to celebrate the life and legacy of Brian W. Powers on Thursday, April 14, between 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm in the Large Gazebo at Laurel Acres Park, 1045 S. Church Street, Mount Laurel, NJ. Please join us to share memories, tears, and hopefully, a little laughter as we gather to honor our husband, father, grandfather, brother, and so much more. Psalm 46:1-2 “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea.” Brian was our mountain, our rock, our foundation. We find strength knowing that he is now walking in the heart of the sea with God.