Arla Jean Powers

Arla Jean Powers, age 93, of Bloomington, Wisconsin, formerly of McGregor, Iowa, was called home peacefully on April 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Arla lived a life marked by devotion, and quiet strength—leaving a lasting impression on all who were blessed to know her.

Arla was born at home on September 15, 1932, in Marquette, Iowa, to Lloyd and Elsie (Knapp) Eddings. She graduated from Marquette-McGregor High School, where she met her high school sweetheart, William “Bill” Flanders. The two were united in marriage on April 18, 1949, beginning a loving partnership that brought three cherished daughters into their lives. Arla’s world was forever changed when Bill passed unexpectedly in 1981.

Throughout her working years, Arla was known for her strong work ethic and caring nature. She worked for Dr. Pfiefer as a clinic assistant in McGregor, Iowa, and later retired after several years of employment at the 3M Company in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Never one to sit still for long, Arla pursued and earned her real estate license after retirement, joining Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate in Prairie du Chien. It was during this time that life brought her full circle when she reconnected with her childhood friend, Raymond “Ray” Powers. The two were married on July 20, 1991, in Prairie du Chien.

Arla was a devoted and active member of the Giard Methodist Church, including the United Methodist Women in Giard, Iowa, where her faith and warmth touched many lives. She and Ray were well known in the community, frequently seen enjoying lunch at local restaurants, visiting with friends, and welcoming conversations with neighbors near and far. Above all else, Arla treasured time spent with her family. She took great joy in attending her grandchildren’s school, sports, and music events and was their most dedicated and loving supporter. Her pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was the shining light of her life.

Arla is lovingly survived by her husband, Ray Powers of Bloomington, Wisconsin; her daughters, Gerri Franz of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Julie Flanders of Evansville, Wisconsin, and Jenny (Len) Pritchett of Bloomington, Wisconsin; her eight grandchildren, Andrea (Hunter) Parks of Mt. Vernon, Iowa, Renee (Beth) Franz of Waverly, Iowa, Michelle (Jim) Dama of Waunakee, Wisconsin, Melissa (Tim) Marta of Neenah, Wisconsin, Blake (Megan) Stagman of Shullsburg, Wisconsin, Brynley Pritchett of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, Pierce Pritchett of Bloomington, Wisconsin, and Charli Pritchett of Bloomington, Wisconsin; and her ten adored great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Larry Powers of Dubuque, Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Elsie Eddings; her sister, Geraldine, who passed as a child; her first husband, William “Bill” Flanders; and her son-in-law, Tom Franz.

A Celebration of Life honoring Arla Jean Powers will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Giard Methodist Church in Giard, Iowa, with lunch and fellowship to follow in the church pavilion.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Agrace Hospice for their compassionate care, comfort, and support during this difficult time.

Arla’s spirit, loving heart, and unwavering devotion to family and community will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the West Grant Rescue Squad in Bloomington, WI. Kramer-Grau Funeral Homes & Crematory in Bloomington is entrusted with her care.