Patricia Ellen Powell, 74, of Merrimack, NH passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 after a period of declining health. Patty was born on September 6, 1950. She was the fifth of eight children born to Max Leon Powell and Madeline Lacasse Powell. Patty was predeceased by her parents and survived by her seven siblings.
Donald A. Powell (Joyce) of St. Petersburg, FL; Max Leon Powell III (Suzanne) of Southern Pines, NC; Margaret Lawliss (William deceased) South Burlington, VT; David N. Powell, Grand Isle, VT; Thomas K. Powell (Maureen), Casco, ME; Marilyn Rand (Kenneth), Farmington, NH; and Judith P. Dunn (Anothony Treanor), South Hero, VT.
The Powell Family moved to Redding CT from Vermont when Patty was in 8th grade. She attended Art school in Virginia when she finished high school in 1968. Bur her journey soon changed and in 1971 she returned to Burlington VT with four of her siblings and opened the first of what would be six New England based Mexican restaurants, Tortilla Flat. After opening a second restaurant in Stowe VT, a third restaurant was opened in Merrimack, NH and in 1974 Patty settled in Merrimack and that became her home.
It was evident from an early age that Patty was blessed with the gift of humor. If you believe a sense of humor is a sign of intelligence, Patty was a genius. It was her humor, down to earth laid-back style that helped to establish “The Flats” in Merrimack as a favorite local restaurant (and lounge!) for great food, great drinks and lots of fun. Her love of art and artistic talent was a huge part of the decor at Tortilla Flat that established it as an inviting and unique restaurant in the early 1970’s. Patty was the manager of Tortilla Flat in Merrimack for decades and eventually passed on that role to various nieces and nephews.
Patty started her own family in Merrimack. Her children and grandchildren were the greatest joy of her life. Her love was unconditional, nonjudgmental and endless. Whenever asked about one of her children or grandchildren her response was always “they are awesome”. She was proud of their accomplishments and was supportive when they struggled. There was no limit to what she would do for them.
In addition to her brothers and sisters, Patty is also survived by two children, Amy Demers Fredette (fiancé Jimmy Major) and Max James Belanger and pre-deceased by her daughter, Jennifer Blair Demers. She also leaves behind four grandchildren, Talia Tamposi, Camden Fredette, Connor Fredette and Cayden Fredette all from Merrimack, NH. Her extended family includes many nieces, nephews and cousins. Patty also leaves behind her dear cats Skipper (climbed in an open window 12 years ago and never left) and Sadie. They have been wonderful companions to Patty.
As Patty’s mobility declined over the last few years and she spent more time at home she returned to her love of painting, became a wiz at Jeopardy and anything on Game Show network and most recently became a huge Boston Celtics fan. She loved watching the Celtics with her son Max.
There are so many people that have crossed paths with Patty over her lifetime. All of them are part of a very lucky group. Her full and honest laugh would draw you in and lighten your day. She was selfless and never dwelled on her hardships. Her desires in life were simple. Being surrounded by her plants, cats and family made her happy and content. Patty also had a strong faith that brought her peace and comfort.
Patty’s family would like to thank her two friends Sacha and Sandy, and Home Health and Hospice Care for their home care provided to Patty over the last several years. Your love, kindness and respect made such a difference in the quality of her final years, and you allowed her to continue to live independently.
We would also like to thank Premier Health and Rehab staff, Southern NH Medical Center, and Home Health and Hospice Care for the gentle care provided to Patty in her last days, and the support and guidance provided to her family as we said goodbye to our beloved Patty. She will be missed beyond words.
The Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Patty’s life on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at Tortilla Flat in Merrimack NH starting at 12 noon. Donations may be sent in her memory to the Greater Nashua YMCA www.nmymca The Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, assisted the family with arrangements. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com
