Dr. Robert John Powell

Dr. Robert John Powell passed away July 16, 2012, at the Washington Regional Hospice House. He was born on Dec. 4, 1954, to Max Eugene and Sina Sue Tucker Powell. Rob fought a long and courageous battle with GIST cancer.

Rob is survived by his mother, Sina Sue Tucker Powell Huff; his sister, Deborah Powell Woehr and husband, William; brother, Billy Joe Powell and wife, Sandy; and niece, Marissa Powell, all of northwest Arkansas. Rikee Roadrunner and her children Gabe and Ashlyn are his significant others. Rob's whole family helped him in his cancer battle, and Rikee was his constant caregiver. He is predeceased by his father, Max Eugene Powell.

Rob grew up in and went to school in Fayetteville. He earned his undergraduate degree in social work at the University of Arkansas (Fayetteville) and his master's in social work from the U. of A. in Little Rock. Rob worked for several institutions in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and California. One of his proudest accomplishments was helping to establish the first patient rehabilitation center for Washington Regional Hospital. Later while working for Community Mental Health Consultants, Inc. in Nevada, Mo., Rob completed his doctorate of psychology at Forrest Institute. After he took a position in Burney, Calif., he returned to Fayetteville for a position at Ozark Guidance Center. Rob was highly thought of by his patients and colleagues in all practices in which he served.

Rob was diagnosed with GIST cancer in 2008, and he fought it with courage and fire right up to the end. His family and friends will miss his dry sense of humor, his quiet demeanor, and his pursuit of justice and fairness for all. The family would like to suggest donations to The Life Raft Group, 155 Rt. 46W, Suite 202, Wayne, NJ 07470. Google The Life Raft Group and click on donate. If you prefer, please donate to any favorite charity.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m., Friday, July 20, at Mt. Comfort Presbyterian Church, Fayetteville, Ark., with the Rev. John King officiating.

To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.nelsonberna.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nelson-Berna Funeral Home & Memorial Crematory, Fayetteville, Ark.