Louise Marie Powell

Louise Marie Powell (Bruttell), 79, of Star, Idaho, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025. She was born on January 10, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan.

Louise was preceded in death by her father, Rainer Bruttell; mother, Bernice Emma Bruttell; brother, Robert Bruttell; and sister, Virginia Wanzeck. She is survived by her husband, Bob Powell; daughters, Emily Malek and Kate Powell; sister, Margaret Zagacki; and grandchildren, Cavanaugh Cooley, Heaston Malek, Anderson Hill, Grace Malek, and Brooks Hill.

A proud alumna of Dominican High School, Louise earned her occupational therapy degree from Western Michigan University and practiced in the Detroit area before moving to Boise, Idaho, where she continued her career in both educational and medical settings. She dedicated her life to helping others regain independence, always offering encouragement with equal parts warmth and grit.

Louise married the love of her life, Bob Powell, on October 7, 1983. Their honeymoon at Elk Camp set the tone for a lifetime of adventure. Together, they sailed on Lucky Peak, camped deep in Idaho’s best-kept secret spots, soaked in hot springs, and tracked down “hole in the wall” bars from one dusty road to the next. Together they adored camping at their favorite spots — the Lochsa River, Hebgen Lake, Old Reliable, and Upper Payette Lake — and could turn any trip into an adventure you’d still be laughing about years later. Bob took a city girl out of the city, and Idaho quickly became her playground. Their marriage was filled with laughter, stories, and a shared charm for exploring places where cell service—and rules—were optional.

Louise brought joy and creativity everywhere she went. A competitive swimmer and diver in high school and a lifeguard in her youth, she later became a master sewer and embroiderer. She lovingly crafted school outfits, special-event dresses, and Halloween costumes for her daughters, which grew into her business, Active Accents (AA Logos), and eventually a full quilting obsession as witnessed by the vast number of quilts as found in every corner of her house.

At home and at the campground, she was a fierce backgammon opponent, an avid reader of true crime and mystery novels, and a dedicated country music listener — the kind who sang along loud and proud. She loved crisp white wine, ice-cold Diet Coke, buttered noodles, and shrimp fettuccine Alfredo.

Independent, outspoken, saucy, and full of joy, Louise was a loyal and loving mother, devoted grandmother, trusted friend, and true force of nature. She lived with the spirit of “Rosie the Riveter,” the heart of a dreamer, and a spark in her eye that made the world brighter. She lived boldly, laughed often, and loved deeply — always on her own terms.

A Celebration of Life Reception will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 from 1:00–4:00 pm at Waters Edge Event Center in Eagle, Idaho. Casual attire is welcome. There will be opportunities to share stories during the reception, either on a memory card or by microphone. Everyone is invited to join in honoring, laughing, and celebrating Louise’s remarkable, spirited life.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bowman Funeral Parlor of Garden City.