Tyler Powers

Tyler Alex Powers was born on Father’s Day, June 19, 1988, the only son of Thomas and Robin (Alex) Powers in Harlan, Iowa. The local pork producers often gifted families a pork roast to celebrate a new baby, but when Tyler arrived at nearly 11 pounds, they were not prepared for quite that much pork. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan. Tyler was raised near Harlan alongside his four sisters. He received his education through Harlan Community Schools and graduated with the Class of 2007.

Tyler dedicated much of his life to hard work. He spent time as a car salesman and worked in carpentry alongside his father, where he developed a strong work ethic and learned the value of dedication. In 2017, Tyler founded Power’s Tree Service, building a business that reflected his entrepreneurial spirit, determination, and love for honest work.

Tyler was known for helping others and always believed in giving people a fair price. He was a natural-born wheeler and dealer, with a knack for turning just about anything into an opportunity. Whether he was negotiating a great deal, finding hidden treasures, or making connections, Tyler could often find a bargain where others never thought to look. Along with his tree service work, he also delivered rock and gravel, humorously referring to his growing enterprise as “Power’s Tree Service and Driveway Solutions.” His intelligence, ambition, quick wit, and hardworking nature left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Tyler shared his life with Tanisha Mikels. They made their home in Earling, where Tyler brought peace, structure, and plenty of laughter to their household. Tyler formed friendships wherever he went, especially in the communities of Earling, Panama, and Dow City. He appreciated the friendliness and comfort of small-town life, where conversation came easy and lasting friendships were built. Tyler had the gift of gab, a contagious sense of humor, and could always make people laugh. He was passionate about sports, knew countless facts about athletes, and wasn’t shy about sharing that knowledge with others. Tyler also loved traveling with his family, especially visiting Colorado, and he deeply cherished every moment spent with his family and friends.

Tyler passed away on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at his sister Amber’s home in Harlan under the compassionate care of Myrtue Hospice. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Earl L. Powers; father-in-law, Mike Mikels; uncle, Ronald Woerdehoff; cousin, Megan Powers; and lifelong friends, Colton Seber, Josh Pannkuk, and David Plagmann.

Tyler is survived by his wife, Tanisha Mikels; children: Alexa Lynn, Payton Sue, and Thomas John; parents, Tom and Robin Powers; sisters: Amber (Cameron) Crinklaw, Tiffany Francis, Lacey (Eric) Grubb, and Shelby (Derek) Thilges; grandmother, Marcy Powers; grandparents, Larry and Connie Lohrmann; along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and countless friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Visitation with family and friends will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Defiance. Burial will take place at a later date in St. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Defiance. The family will direct memorials.