Trent University Mourns the Passing of Professor Emeritus Percival Powles
Dr. Powles was a pioneer of Trent’s Biology department
Trent University is saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Emeritus Percival (Perce) Powles, a respected biologist and foundational member of Trent’s Department of Biology.
Professor Powles joined Trent University as an associate professor in 1968, during a formative period in the University’s history. After transitioning to full professor in 1975, he went on to serve as department chair from 1975 to 1977, contributing to the growth and development of biology offerings at Trent.
A marine biologist by training, Prof. Powles brought a deep commitment to scientific inquiry and teaching excellence. Over the course of his career, he published 44 scientific papers, with research focused on fisheries and larval fish biology. He also served as president of the Canadian Committee for Fisheries Research, reflecting his national leadership.
Prof. Powles retired from Trent University in 1995, but his engagement with science and research continued well beyond his academic career. He remained active in the scientific community through volunteer research and professional service, including publisher of the newsletter for the Larval Fish Committee of the American Fisheries Society.
Exemplifying a lifelong dedication to learning and discovery, Prof. Powles interests also spanned sport and music. He was an avid golfer, curler and tennis player, and active singer and musician in the Peterborough community.
At Trent, Prof. Powles will be remembered as a thoughtful scholar and mentor, and a valued colleague whose contributions helped shape the University’s academic excellence. His legacy lives on through the many students he taught, the colleagues he worked alongside, and the lasting impact of his research and leadership.
The University extends heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends of Dr. Powles and to all who knew him at Trent.