ORETTA H. POWELL (nee Hubrath). Born April 6, 1922, died September 6, 2018, at the age of 96, after a brief illness. She was the dearly beloved wife of the late Fred Powell, Sr., both long-time residents of Brecksville, Ohio and Fort Meyers, FL. They were South High School graduates and sweethearts who enjoyed 68 years of marriage. She was the proud mother of John R. (Sandra) of Parma, Nancy P. Szeker (Herman) of Shelton, CT, Michael L. of Palo Alto, CA, James E. of Los Angeles, CA, Fred W. Jr. (Lydia) of Westlake, Mary Ann Collins (Mark) of Twinsburg, Jean Marie Massey (Jeff) of Wildomar, CA; cherished grandmother of Brian (Kate), David (Rebecca), Lauren McCracken (David), Jaclyn, Fred, III “Eric,” Anne Detlefsen (Leif), Tom Szeker, Claire Szeker (Katy), Grayson, Brenna, Farren and Addison Collins, Christina Lester (Lindon),and Jennifer and Stephanie Massey; dear great-grandmother of Autumn, Isaiah, Luke Powell, Etta Mae, and Arwen Powell, “Baby Boy” McCracken, Jacob, Andrew and Samuel Detlefsen, and Riley and Luke Lester; Sister of the late Evelyn Sorm (Albert, deceased).
Loretta was born and raised in Cleveland. During the war, she trained cross country to marry Fred who was stationed in Oregon with the Navy. She held war time jobs at GE and Jack & Heintz. Following the war, Fred worked in and eventually bought a pioneering company in the HVAC and refrigeration service industry. Loretta worked at Fred’s side as he grew the business, lending her skills in payroll, invoicing and other administrative functions. The original “working mom,” she performed these duties while raising her seven children. In addition to supporting them in their studies and activities, she led them on many adventures to factory tours, historical attractions, museums and camp sites.
Upon retirement, she spent time at their various homes in Fort Meyers, FL. While Fred was an avid golfer, Loretta volunteered her time at Habitat for Humanity and programs at the local schools, in addition to spending time with her growing brood of grandchildren. They travelled extensively, participating in Elder Hostel programs in California, Ireland and France.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name are suggested to Habitat for Humanity Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity, Attention: Development Office 2110 W 110th Street, Cleveland, OH 44102 and March of Dimes online or Donation Processing Center, P.O. Box 673667, Marietta, GA 30006
Friends may call at THE FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME, 356 W. AURORA RD. (OHIO RTE. 82), SAGAMORE HILLS FOR VISITATION SUNDAY 2-6 PM. Funeral Monday 9:15 a.m. at the Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Basil the Great Catholic Church 10 a.m. Interment at Brecksville Highland Drive Cemetery. www.ferfolia.com
