Robert James Powell, known as Bob to most, lost his battle with cancer on Tuesday, March 23, 2021 and passed away peacefully at his sister's home in Massachusetts at the age of 70.

Bob was a nature lover - an avid birder, hiker, kayaker, photographer, conservationist. Bob was born in Minnesota, traveled the world for many years and settled in South Texas, where he worked at both Santa Ana and Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuges. He also led tours in the summer across the western US and loved all of the National Parks from Zion to Yellowstone to Yosemite. Bob thoroughly enjoyed time spent outdoors and traveling, he also actively participated in the Valley Birding Festival for many years. His loss will be felt in the widespread birding community of South Texas, where he led many birding tours and educational sessions in recent years.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Kennard and Addie Powell, and his sisters, Jeanette Matvey and Dorothy Ann Powell. He is survived by his two sisters, Evelyn Hollering and Barbara Mertens, a daughter (Tehina Santillion) and her family, a son (Aaron Tronnes) and his family, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Curran-O'Brien Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.