Obituaries

Bruce Edmund Powelson

BRUCE EDMUND POWELSON, 62, of Weirton, WV, passed away on October 16, 2025. Born on February 27, 1963, in Weirton, he was the son of the late Robert Edmund “Squire” and Norma Mae (Cole) Powelson. Bruce was known for his kind, quiet, and thoughtful nature, a man who valued people over possessions and relationships over recognition. A graduate of Brooke High School, he went on to enjoy a distinguished 38-year career in auto parts sales. Bruce was consistently recognized as the number one salesperson, earning the trust of his customers through sincerity and service rather than persuasion. During his tenure with Trans Star in Pittsburgh, he managed their largest warehouse, leading with the same calm professionalism that defined his life. In his younger years, Bruce volunteered with the City of Weirton’s Volunteer Fire Department. A devoted fan of KISS, music was one of his lifelong passions, he loved playing the drums and performed in several high school “garage bands.” In 1991, Bruce married the love of his life, Patti Schell. The two met on a blind date arranged by dear friends, Mark and Josette Manley, beginning a lifelong partnership grounded in love, and family. Saturdays often found Bruce enjoying college football with his father, a cherished tradition he carried on after his father’s passing in 2011. In recent years, his greatest joy came from cheering on his grandchildren at their Brooke High School sporting events. In addition to his parents, Bruce was preceded in death by his sister, Pamela J. Jones, on January 6, 2025. Bruce will be remembered with love and gratitude by his wife, Patti (Schell) Powelson; his daughters, Schelley (Brian) Shillington and Trishann (Joe) Sacripanti; his sister, Susan Mazzocco; his grandchildren, Rocco and Sophia Sacripanti; and his dog, Lexi. Private services were held at Impact Church, with Kendon Alexander presiding. Memorial contributions may be made in Bruce’s memory to Impact Church, 300 School Street, Weirton, WV 26062. Share tributes and memories at www.grecohertnick.com.