Asher John Powell

Asher John Powell, age 54, of 25 Duke of Gloucester St., Hemlock Twp., at his home at 3:03 p.m. on Sunday, August 2, 2020.

Born on October 4, 1965 in Kingston, he was the son of Ruth (Bump) Powell of Nesquehoning and the late Richard Asher Powell. He was a 1983 graduate of Crestwood High School. Asher resided in Buckhorn for the past nine years and was formerly of Mountaintop.

In 1986, Asher graduated Penn State University with an Associate’s degree in Biomedical Engineering Technology. He was employed by Wise Potato Chips for 26 years where he worked his way up from the basement as a stock clerk to Senior Purchasing Manager. He previously worked in the biomedical department of Nesbitt Memorial Hospital and owned Bar B Que Hut in the 1987-1990.

How do you sum up a legend in a paragraph? At first glance, Asher appeared to be a mild-mannered businessman, however to those fortunate enough to get to know him, he was a bit of a rascal.  He had a quick wit and loved playing practical jokes anonymously. Asher had a penchant for telling entertaining stories of his numerous adventures. He was quite the marksman and loved target shooting. His interests were diverse, he had a continual curiosity and love of learning. He was once described as “a man who could make something out of nothing with parts left over.” He loved to set off fireworks for July 4th and was so proud to be called “PopPop Fireworks” by his granddaughter, Persephone. Asher was a loving son, spouse, father and grandfather he will be sorely missed and carried in our hearts always.

In addition to his mother, Asher is survived by his wife whom he met at Penn State University, the former, Laurel L. “Laurie” Whitmire, with whom he celebrated his 34th wedding anniversary on June 21, 2020; two sons: Jacob Scott Powell, and his wife Sarah Houck, Janesville, Wis. and Joshua David Powell, and his wife Tiffany Kester, Berwick; two granddaughters: Persephone Rose and Freya Rose; three sisters: Betzy, wife of Jeff Cominsky, Hunlock Creek, Cindy, wife of James Shudak, Mountaintop; Jane Becker, Nesquehoning.

Private services will be held in the Dean W. Kriner Inc. Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 325 Market St., Bloomsburg, with the Rev. Gordon E. Smith, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church, Espy officiating. There will be no viewing.

The family will provide flowers. Memorials may be sent to a charity of the donor’s choice.