Robert (Bob) Calvin Power

Bob Power passed away January 26, 2024 at the Dobson Home Hospice of the Valley.  Bob was the son of Wilbur and Louise (Ross) Power. He was born March 24, 1945 at the Tempe Clinic Hospital (now called St. Luke’s Hospital).  Bob is survived by three of his four children, Robyn Power, Robert Power II, and Erin Pottberg and five siblings: Lawrence (Larry) Power, Alexa Jones, Celeste Pope, Karen Ott, and Freddy Kight.

Bob spent his childhood and teen years living on Power Ranch in Higley, AZ.  He attended Higley Elementary School and later Chandler High School (class of ‘62).  After graduation from Chandler High Bob traveled around the West working and learning as many young men do.  In 1965 Bob married Janice (Jan) Wilson of Chandler and began attending New Mexico State University on a Co-op program working 6 months and attending classes 6 months each year.  Later, Bob expedited his education by switching to the Physical Sciences Program where he could continuously attend classes and work part time.  His work was with RCA at White Sands Missile Range monitoring various missile tests.  

During this time Bob and Jan also began their family.  First daughter, Robyn, was already with them when they arrived at NMSU.   Next was Robert II, then Erin, and last was Penelope (deceased).   He carried a heavy load - work, school, family - all at the same time.  But Bob was both smart and tough, so he survived it, and graduated in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering.   

Bob began his career in Greensboro, North Carolina employed by General Electric. In 1973 Bob and family moved back to the Valley and Bob began work with Motorola Semiconductor where he was employed for the next 25 years until he took an early retirement program in 1998. During these years Bob was active in the Toastmasters and the MENSA clubs.   Bob was the president of the local MENSA chapter for a period of time.

After Bob’s retirement he pursued various interests, including real estate. He spent time with and enjoyed his growing family.  He loved being a dad and grandpa. His children, grandchildren (Lauren Bentley, Noah Bentley, Megan Power, Krislyn Power, Ryan Crudele, Matthew Pottberg, James Pottberg, Emma Pottberg, Cameron DeMoss and Kaila DeMoss), and great-grandson (Salem) were highlights of his later years.

Bob worked hard. His family was always first in his thoughts, and he was tenacious in his pursuits to make the world a better place. His dry wit, brilliant mind, and unique personality will be missed by all.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 3, 2024 at 10:00 am at Whitney & Murphy Bueler Mortuary, 14 W. Hulet Drive, Chandler, Arizona 85225.