Charles A. Powell ’64

Chuck died Feb. 3, 2025, of heart and lung complications.

He came to Princeton from New Trier High School. He majored in history, played baseball, basketball, and 150-pound football, was a member of the St. Paul’s Society, and joined Cap & Gown.

After graduation, Chuck worked briefly for Rep. Donald Rumsfeld ’54 in Washington, D.C., then returned to the Chicago area to attend Northwestern Law School, earning a law degree in 1967. Via OCS at Fort Dix, he joined the Army from 1967 to 1970 and served in Vietnam, where he earned a Bronze Star with two Oak Leaf Clusters.

Chuck survived, albeit with health issues, and returned to Chicago to start a 40-year law career. After working in the Circuit Court and State’s Attorney Office of Cook County, he co-founded a tax law firm, Powell & Reilly, later joining Chicago’s Neal Gerber law firm as senior counsel.

Chuck was involved with his St. Augustine Episcopal Church and in his sons’ sports activities. Politically he was proud to have worked in early campaigns helping classmate Jim Leach launch his 30-year career in Congress.

Chuck is survived by his wife of 46 years, Promilla; their four sons; and four of his former Princeton roommates who remember his good nature, thoughtfulness, and wit. Our condolences to all.