Joseph B. Powers

Joseph B. Powers, age 92, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 21, 2026, in the comfort of his home in Saratoga Springs, New York, with his loving family by his side.

Born on September 15, 1933, in Manhattan, New York, Joseph was the son of the late Joseph Viviano and Mary Wernsdorfer. He lived a long and meaningful life centered around faith, family, friendship, and service to others.

Joseph was proud to start, own, and operate several businesses throughout the Riverdale, New Jersey area for many years. He also successfully owned and operated an interstate Christian book sales business, through which he shared his faith and love of Christian literature with countless people.

Through hard work, dedication, and a kind spirit, he built lasting relationships with those who knew him both personally and professionally. He was a man who genuinely enjoyed meeting people and never hesitated to offer a warm smile or friendly conversation.

A devoted man of faith, Joseph dearly loved attending church and cherished the close relationships he formed with his pastor and church family. His church community brought him great joy, comfort, and fellowship throughout the years. He especially treasured the opportunity to connect with others and share in the love and encouragement of his faith.

Joseph also had many passions that brought happiness to his life. In his younger years, he enjoyed serving as a lifeguard, a role that reflected both his caring nature and love of helping others. He held fond memories of his family’s involvement in the Boy Scouts, an experience that helped create the foundation of his life. Joseph found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially riding the bus.  His Pine Grove church family affectionately nicknamed him “Sheepdog” because of his faithful heart and his passion for helping gather “lost lambs” back into Jesus’ flock. One of Joseph’s favorite pastimes was visiting Congress Park and Broadway, where he stopped to pet and play with nearly every dog he saw, always bringing smiles to those around him.

Above all, Joseph will be remembered for his faith and profound care of all his church members and newcomers.  He had a gentle heart, warm personality, and kindness that he extended to everyone he met. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends.

Joseph is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Powers; his son, Wayne Ploger; his sister, Marilu Ploger; his brother-in-law, David Evans (Qin); sister-in-law, Laura Evans (Doug); along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Pine Grove Community Church, 59 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. A church service celebrating Joseph’s life will begin at 12:00 noon.

A graveside service with military honors will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY 12871.

Arrangements are under the compassionate care of Compassionate Funeral Care, Inc..

Online condolences may be made by visiting Compassionate Funeral Care

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