1932 – 2015

TOGUS — Basil Lionel Powers, 83, of Coplin Plantation, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 29, at the VA Maine Healthcare Center at Togus.

He was born on March 10, 1932, in Chesterville, the son of Benjamin and Corrine (Hamlin) Powers. He graduated from Farmington High School in the Class of 1951. On Oct. 23, 1952, Basil married the love of his life, Harriet Bachelder, at Kerns Inn in Eustis.

He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Basil was a hardworking man, whether it be farming, logging or at one of his many other jobs. Over the years, he worked at Forster Mfg. Co. in Stratton, for Central Maine Power on the transmission lines, building the first condos at Sugarloaf Mountain and caretaking for John Hoffman in Rangeley during the summer months.

Basil was very active in his community, serving as selectman for many years in Coplin Plantation, a member of the American Legion and the Forty and Eight. He held Seat 4 in the 115th Maine State Legislature for two years, where he was placed on the Energy and Natural Resources committee. Basil was an activist against wind farms, bear baiting and pesticide spray.

Basil is survived by his wife of 63 years, Harriet E. Powers of Coplin Plantation; his four children, Lee Powers of Valley View, Pa., Linda Lowell and husband, Frank, of Coplin Plantation, Janine Spiller and husband, Rick, of Dallas Plantation, Gregory Powers of Gratz, Pa.; his brother, Elliot Powers and wife, Marilyn, of New Sharon; 10 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; numerous nephews and nieces and their children.

He was predeceased by his parents; his daughter, June Powers Felkey; and his son, Glen Powers.

The family would like to extend a special thank-you to all that cared for Basil from Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, and the ER, ICU and Hospice units at the VA Healthcare at Togus.