Edward J. Powers, III was elected president and general manager of McCabe-Powers Body Company in May of 1973.  He succeeded R. Brooke Daly, who continued as chairman.  George E. Walsh and Carl "Corky" Kinyon were promoted to executive vice presidents from vice presidents.

Mr. Powers went on to build McCabe-Powers Body Company where he served as President and Owner.  He felt strongly about instilling the importance of prized skill and craftsmanship that were so important to his father and grandfather before him.  The company was sold in 1983.

Mr. Powers retired to Cuba, Missouri, where he owned and operated The Broken Arrow Lodge in Cuba, Missouri for several years during his retirement. Edward "Ed" Powers died on March 25, 1995 from cancer. He was buried on his property in Cuba, Missouri.