ATLANTA -- CBS 46 News reporter Fred Powers died Monday afternoon after a long battle with a rare form of cancer. He was surrounded by his parents, four sisters, nephew Evan, and his best friend Colby. He was 49.

Fred’s memorial service is scheduled for 1 p.m. Wednesday at Saint Mark's United Methodist Church at 781 Peachtree Street in Atlanta.

“We were privileged to have Fred as a journalist, peer and friend,” said WGCL-TV Vice-President and General Manager Andy Alford. “He loved his work and the station and it showed every day in the office and on location. We will miss him dearly and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

During his career at CBS 46, the station benefited greatly from his hard work and success. Fred was willing to do anything in the name of news – including being set on fire, bitten by dogs and hit by a taser. His nickname “human piñata” suited him well. In 2005, Fred won an Emmy in the category of Specialty Reporter. He also has numerous AP awards to his credit.

This University of Utah alum started his career in journalism in Phoenix as a television anchor and reporter. His career took him from Salt Lake City, to Southern California, Phoenix, and finally to Atlanta. Fred found a soft spot for Atlanta, finding the people here to be friendlier than anywhere else he had ever lived. He enjoyed golf, working out and spending time outdoors with his golden retriever Colby. Fred also enjoyed volunteering for various local charity events and cheering for all of his favorite sports teams and athletes, especially the Atlanta Braves.

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