Last of Seven Illinois Brothers Who Served Dies-- Part 2: Powell Brothers Memorial Highway

John Powell, 37, said: "This is the end of an era-- the last of 13 children to go.  That generation will never be repeated.

Stete Sen. Sam McCann, R-Carlinville, said plans for a dedication ceremony, which will unveil signs along the highway are still in the works.  The ceremony will likely be August 14, tomorrow, to coincide with the annual Powell family reunion.

George Powell's daughter Paula Prusick, said her father was pleased when he heard of the honor, but that he probably would not have been able to attend because of declining health.  He was incredibly sharp right up to the end.  His wife Lillian died in 2012.  he worked at an auto manufacturing plant in Lansing after the war and then worked for the Michigan state liquor control commission.

He retired in 1978 then fished "almost every day" until he was in his late 80s.

--GreGen