Nicholas John Powers of Urbana, Illinois died on November 28, 2025 at Indiana University Hospital.

Nick was born on November 5, 1958 in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin and grew up near Columbus. Nick developed a strong work ethic on his family's farm. He had lifelong enthusiasm for horses, tractors, motorcycles, and cars. Nick was a bright and successful student and was active in 4-H. He attended the University of Wisconsin Madison, earning bachelor's and Ph.D. degrees. He also obtained a J.D. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and was a member of the Illinois Bar. Nick worked as an economist at the Economic Research Service of the US Department of Agriculture, as a consultant, and as a visiting professor and research associate at the University of Illinois.

Nick is preceded in death by his father, Edward, sisters Pamela and Bridget, and brothers Edward Patrick and Joseph. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (Urbana, Illinois), children Katherine (Urbana) and William (San Francisco), mother Evelyn (Columbus), and sisters Sheila (John Scheuller; Minneapolis) and Collette (Bethesda).

Nick's family relied daily on his expertise, problem-solving abilities, and steadfast support. He went above and beyond as a parent and cared for his mother-in-law, father-in-law, and brother Joe at the end of their lives. An avid news reader, Nick always had something interesting to say about current events and business. He had a gift for small talk and storytelling.

Nick lived with a rare disease. His family is grateful for the care he received and encourages donations to the IU Health Simon Cancer Center. Nick will be interred at St. Columbkille Cemetery in Columbus, Wisconsin, on May 23, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Jensen's funeral home is handling the arrangements.