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William Dan Powell

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Oregon State University University of Maryland

William Powell Obituary

Powell, William Dan 36 Jan. 03, 1975 Sept. 05, 2011 Surrounded by family and friends, William Dan Powell, lead Nanotechnologist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, passed away at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Md. He was 36. Dan's professional career was marked with rare achievement, including nanotechnology experi-ments flown on multiple space shuttle missions, co-founding the Greater Washington Nano-technology Alliance, and serving as Chairman of the Inter-Organizational Nanotechnology Council. Dan was also an expert in metallic and organic-matrix composite structure development and holds several patents in mechanical design and nanocomposites. Dan was a charismatic person with a unique ability to touch and inspire others to make the impossible merely difficult. He was a compelling and engaging public speaker and could articulate complex concepts to any audience with simple language and great humor. Dan taught everyone he met something new-whether it be mental toughness, perseverance, undaunting courage or how to find a new perspective when all options seemed exhausted. This legacy will live on through us all. Dan loved jazz music, beautiful things, good food and even better friends. Born in Carmel, Calif., Dan received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Oregon State University and pursued graduate studies in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland. Rights of the Disabled was a passion for Dan. He fought vigorously to improve the quality of life and accessibility for disabled persons wherever he lived and worked. Those who will miss Dan most are his wife, Lori; mother, Connie; sisters, Holly and Coleen; and brother, Ron. A Mass of Christian burial was held Friday, Sept. 9, 2011, at St. Ann Catholic Church in Arlington, Va. Dan will be coming home to California for his final resting place. A vigil and visitation is planned from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16, at St. Michael's Church, Livermore, Calif. Interment will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at Pleasanton Pioneer Cemetery, Pleasanton, Calif. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Judes Children's Research Hospital, Shriners Hospital for Children or Johns Hopkins Hospital-or give the gift of life by donating blood.

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Published by The Oregonian on Sep. 13, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for William Powell

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17 Entries

Linda La Fleur

April 5, 2017

I worked the main desk in Sackett when Dan arrived for keys to his room. Dan made my day! He was very upbeat, positive bright light. Dan operated on a very different plane - uplifting, personality plus, brilliant, beyond this world - a shooting star that graced us with his mere presence. I also worked with him on a special 'thank you' party held in Lake Oswego specifically for his neighbors that supported him through his tough times and good times. He was specific in his vision for it, and I was fortunately cast as the deliverer of his gig - a park in Lake Oswego, barbeque lunch, a great jazz band from Portland, floral décor, and a huge ice cream truck filled with his favorite ice cream. Dan, you were and are one class act - you inspired me incredibly and will always remember the times in Sackett and having the privilege of delivering your special party!!

Kari Jones

December 19, 2011

I, too, lived in Sackett ('95-'96) with Dan and have thought of him from time to time. He was always hitting on us, girls. Always positive. I remember "helping" (write) his homework for him late one night, Physics or some other generic engineering class, getting frustrated about what he wanted me to write. I had already finished mine and could have just finished his quickly. I knew he was smart, but apparently, I didn't realize that his brain functioned on a whole different stratosphere than mine. I love hearing about all his accomplishements.

Stephen Simonds

September 29, 2011

Today I received my retirement news letter announcing that William D. Powell had passed. At first, I didn't make the connection it was the Dan Powell I knew, until I read William's accomplishments and position of Lead Nanotechnologist. I was shocked and saddened to realize it was the Dan I knew, I had only known William as Dan.

Dan and I both worked in the same Division, collaborated on several projects and I was always impressed at Dan's determination and drive and intellect. Dan shared with me that before he was injured he had been a very physical person. He also shared with me that he had made the choice to switch gears after his accident and pursue intellectual endeavors. I always suspected Dan was just saying that to make me feel better because he had been a great athlete as well as being a genius, which I am neither.

I never once heard Dan speak of disabilities only Engineering, Nanotechnology and making the world a better place. I am so very saddened for Dan's family and friends but believe we will all meet again one day.

God Bless You Dan, it was my pleasure knowing you and I'm a better person for it.

Retired GSFC/NASA friend and colleague

Luana Smith

September 29, 2011

One day I dropped by his college room, as I sometimes did, and he invited me to share a bite of chocolate with him. I said "Sure." Without a hint of awkwardness, he pointed me to the candy dish and instructed me on unwrapping it and feeding him. I would never have had the courage to suggest such an intimacy. In his place, I can't imagine the courage to ask for such help.

I have no idea if his college education and career was an "of course" decision or if there was more struggle than that. I am just thankful that I had the opportunity to know Dan and to be educated by him.

Billy Marlowe

September 21, 2011

I have thought of Dan, over the years, since we lived in Sackett Hall together. I will always remember him giving me rides, on the back of his chair, to class and coffee discussing the future. He was a great friend and will be missed. May God bless you in this time of loss.

Lori Coffee

September 15, 2011

What a shining star Dan is & was...I remember the day of Dan's accident & always looked up to how he put that fierce determination & intelligence to work. He made a lasting impression on my children & myself. Lori Coffee ( his neighbor in Lake Oswego)

Chris Horn

September 14, 2011

I also lived in Sackett Hall, 1st floor, A wing with Dan during freshman year. We also struggled through Mech. Engineering together (ok he breazed through, the rest of us struggled). Amazing to hear of his accomplishments.

Rick Buchler

September 14, 2011

I lived with Dan at Sackett Hall at Oregon State University. Dan was an impressive individual even then. You are right - nothing was impossible when Dan was involved. I always thought he'd be successful and I am happy to read that he led such a full and exciting life.

Louise S.

September 14, 2011

Dan;

The life lessons you taught me as the "little brother" will always remind me of you. I wish I had been able to spend more time with you as an adult. For the family, your grace under fire is the most amazing lesson I have ever learned. Thank you for sharing that with me! Love you all!

September 13, 2011

Rest in peace, fellow Sacketteer! Our thoughts are with your family.

September 13, 2011

It is rare that I am brought to tears by the loss of someone I didn't know. This was an extraordinary individual who accomplished more than most in a life ended much too soon. His family

September 12, 2011

I will always remain grateful for his kindness and warmth of friendship. Working at the forefront of nanotechnology, he was a great inspiration to many of us with his 'must do' attitude. We will miss him dearly.Peace.
Suraj Rawal, Denver, CO

J. & O. Marcus

September 11, 2011

Dan's amazing light will continue to shine on his family and friends, and we hope you take comfort in that light. What a truly special individual.

N Nogeire Burgess

September 8, 2011

So sorry to hear of Dan's passing. I always think of him with a smile. He was an amazing person!

Sue Brockett

September 8, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. Words cannot express how difficult this must be for all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

M. Jones

September 8, 2011

May the wonderful memories of your loved one continue to provide comfort to you until God's promise is fulfilled.