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Shawn Powell Obituary
Shawn E. Powell was the firefighter with the light touch. Whether working at Engine Company 207 in downtown Brooklyn, at home in Crown Heights, or camping with his 5- year-old son, Joshua, he had a way of lifting spirits. "If there wasn't any fun going on, he would find a way," said Matthew Dwyer, a fellow firefighter. "With Shawn, the glass was half full, never half empty."
Firefighter Powell, 32, brought unusual skills to the Fire Department. An artist and woodcarver, he had built props and volunteered at several New York City theaters, including the Apollo Theater, and studied architecture at New York Technical College.
At Engine Company 207 — where the slogan is "The House of Misfit Toys" because of the company's specialized, somewhat bizarre-looking fire-fighting equipment — Mr. Powell made the point in comic relief with a poster that includes a square- wheeled fire engine.
Firefighter Powell and his wife, Jean, who had been teenage sweethearts in Brooklyn, married in 1989 and moved immediately to Germany, where he served four years in the Army.
This year, Firefighter Powell's passion had been camping with Joshua.
On several trips to lakes and state parks in New Jersey, he was teaching the boy to make a campfire and put up a tent and had planned another father-son outing soon after Sept. 11.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Millie
April 22, 2023
Thinking of you today Shawn. May you continue to rest in heavenly peace. You're son is as handsome as you, he's a grown man now. I don't know him, but he spoke highly of his memories of you in a video I saw on line. God bless your family. 4220th USAH Family, MSG Merced
Enrique Molina
September 12, 2022
A Man can basically be anyone but a caring compassionate human being is hard to be. You Shawn had so much to offer and your life was cut short. One thing is that you will always be remembered.
Your fellow soldier and friend
CPT E. Molina and family.
What an Honor to have known you!
S. C
September 11, 2022
You are one of the most extraordinary men I have ever known.
September 11, 2021
You are remembered. Your life is celebrated. Thank you for your service, your courage, and your sacrifice. Your memory remains in the hearts and minds of thankful Americans.
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Hilda Alejandre
September 11, 2021
Shawn we saw your beautiful son, Joshua on 20/20 yesterday! He is such a handsome young man, you would be so proud of him. It´s hard to believe it´s been 20 years since you left us and yet it feels like yesterday. Rest In Peace! Hugs for your son and family.
Tom Vassiliou
September 11, 2019
My brother you are missed... my daughter turns 18 today.. born the same day we lost you!!.. I know you crossed paths as one of you entered and one left this world... you are not forgotten my friend and never will be
S.J. Friscia III
June 24, 2019
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
June 9, 2019
It was so unfortunate that the WTC collapse claimed your life while you did everything possible to rescue people from disaster, and help fellow comrades from FDNY Engine 207.
Rest peacefully, brother.
steve meyer
October 10, 2018
Looking for a photo of Shawn's poster with the square-wheeled fire engine. I'm making a memorial sculpture of Shawn and would like anything pertaining to his life. Firefighter Steve Meyer; BSFD 2586, email [email protected]. I chose a bracelet with Shawn's name on it while at FDNY Engine 316 in early 2012. Always knew I wanted to do something to celebrate his life, working on it now.
Enrique Molina
September 11, 2017
USA Sargent and fire fighter Shaw E.. Powell we will never forget you for your ultimate sacrifice. Your memory will always be in our hearts. RIP US army 4220th hooah.CPT Enrique X Molina and family
Tom H
September 11, 2017
Today, 09/11/2017, we remember you Shawn. Thank you for your service. To Shawn's family members .. reading notes about Shawn one word keeps coming up, kindness. All the best, with much regards.
Photo from June 2015 visit to the memorial.
Michael Brattain
September 11, 2016
Photo from June 2015 visit to the memorial.
Michael Brattain
September 11, 2016
Enrique, Xavier, Hilda Molina
September 11, 2015
Shawn, 14 years later and you are still very vividly present in our hearts. The 4220th USAH and it's family members will always be grateful to you for your service to our country. You are a courageous, fearless, loyal man and a true hero! Your brother at arms, Captain Molina, Xavier, and Hilda.
September 11, 2015
I remember!
9/11/2015
September 11, 2015
My name is Megan and I had the blessing of praying for Shawn while climbing 110 stores at the Kalamazoo 9/11 Memorial Stairclimb. I will continue to pray for Shawn, his wife, and son. God bless you all.
Ellie Krushinski
September 14, 2014
My name is Ellie Krushinski and I climbed the 9/11 Memorial Stair climb today, and I did it in memory of Shawn. Never forgotten!
Dr Hilda Alejandre
September 10, 2014
Shawn, you did drill with my husband Captain Enrique Molina, he speaks so highly of you and your family. We are paying tribute to your bravery and legacy in Greenfield, CA. Thank you for serving our country in so many ways. Nothing will ever erase your life and legacy from our memory and our hearts.
Danielle Garcia
September 11, 2012
As a transfer from VanHighSchool to GrandSaline Highshool we recieved braclets with a random persons name on it that passed 11 years ago on September 11, 2001. You guys will be keptin our prayes for many many years.
N I
October 7, 2011
The Fire Dept of Searcy,Ar held a memorial in honor of all who gave their lives on this fateful day. A flag was displayed representing each firefighter that perished. My coworkers and I sponsored the flag for Shawn Edward Powell. You will always be remembered, even by those who never met you, and your family will forever be in our prayers.
P. Unger
September 11, 2011
We carried a large photo today in the Constitution Day Parade here in Nevada City Ca.
You will always be in out hearts, prayers and will never be forgotten.
The Unger Family, Nevada City, CA
M K
September 11, 2011
Mr. Powell, I was one of your son's teacher after that uneventful day in 2011. You would be proud of Joshua and your wife...how they remains strong and hopeful. You will not be forgotten...
September 11, 2011
SGT Powell,
It was a pleasure to serve with you at 4220th USAH. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. God bless you.
CPT Sylvester
Evette
May 8, 2011
Shawn,
I did not know you well, but I remember you were one of the kindest, nicest neighbors that I knew when I lived on Clermont Avenue in Brooklyn. I was devastated when Danny said you were on duty at the World Trade Center on 9/11. I hope that your son knows what a wonderful man you are, and that is the memory that he keeps of his father. With the death of Bin Laden, I was reminded of you and of all the other 9/11 victims. May God bless you and your surviving family.
Ivan Heyward
September 11, 2010
Hey Shawn, its been 8 years now, and that wierd void is still there man. You know...even after your memorial, i held onto the possibility of a miracle that you had somehow survived. You always had nine lives. So I always expected ANYTHING from you! Thank you for being my best friend in childhood man! When I was that NEW Kid on the block, You showed me love. I am proud to have known you on this side..and I will see you again on the other side..and I'll be the new kid on the block all over again! Love you man! Peaceful Journey!
Tom Vassiliou
September 11, 2010
Miss you buddy!! we lost u on the same day my beautiful daughter was born.. i have a feeling that a part of you is inside her.. you were a great friend, father and husband and are dearly missed. you definetly made my world and my life a better place to be in..as a soldier you were the person i would want to go into ba...ttle with.. as i firefighter.. you WERE the person that went into battle and made the ultimate sacrifice so that other may live... i hope only to be a fraction of the person you were in your short time on this earth.. God Bless You Shawn!
Antoinette Tynes
September 12, 2009
Shawn, I am very proud of you. Even thought you are gone. I will remember who you were in life. Glad I had the opportunity to know you.
Jeri
September 11, 2009
I was given a dog tag after 9/11 that was made with an American flag on the front. Shawn Powell's name and station number was scratched on the back. I have looked at that and prayed for his family since that time! If that is something you would like to have, please email me and I will mail it to you! I come from a family of firefighters and know what amazing hero's they all are! God Bless you and your family! [email protected]
Sunshine Raysor
September 11, 2009
is remembering the patio barbeques, the bike rides, concert at Wingate park…. she's even remembering the drive to KFC when that new driver totally backed up into your car like ALL his mirrors were broken & he couldn’t hear you honking the horn. Sunshine misses the music, the laughing, the trip to Great Adventure… and she can do without all of that cause most of all she misses you.
September 12, 2008
In loving memory. May God richly bless your wife and son always. Thank you sir for your courage, your service to country, and your ultimate sacrifice. We will NEVER forget! Rest in peace
P Tabbernor
February 4, 2007
In remembrance....
Kristine
January 4, 2007
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Susana Trabalon
September 24, 2006
i am from Spain.but i have my story .. year 2000 i spent 6 months in Brooklyn. Stayed in a student residence by NYFD Engine 207. at nite i heard the loud noises from the fire trucks. everytime i came home i felt safe. i would walk along the fire unit doors a few times a day to go wherever i had to go and whoever was there would always say how are you doing? or have a nice day! with a smile. can´t remember their faces i never knew their names..but prolly Shawn was one of them at that time.so i thank YOU Shawn if u ever smiled at me and made my days in NY feel more like home.
i lived in BK but i worked in Manhattan around WTC area. after work most days i´d go under the towers to have a coffee or windowshop.. i wonder about those unnamed faces..who and where are they now..
so i wanted to share my thoughts in here cos it´s been inside of me this long. GoD bless the souls of those who left us and the ones that lost pieces of their life and have irreplaceable hollows in their heart.
Inner City Sports Little League
September 11, 2006
To the Powell family, we offer our deepest sympathy and continued prayers.
"It's raining, but there ain't a cloud in the sky...must have been a tear from your eye."
Darlene B. Harris
September 11, 2005
Dear Shawn, though we never met; we recently learned that my daughter Sherena la'belle Harris is related to you and your family through the Floyd family in Queens New York. I wrote this poem dedicated to you and your family. The poem is called ''Heavy On My Heart''
Unexpectedly god will send for his angels - but in the mean time - the process of living a long life - can be complicated and challenging - though some of us will stay and some of us will go - for many of us who are still around - we must take heed to those who are not - there've been close friends - who'd shared there time and love - just as relatives have touched our lives as well - with immeasurable love and unforgettable memories - while time passes the cycle of life begins - as do tragedy strikes - We'll never forget Nine Eleven - surprisingly we're reminded again - that life owe's no one - and that time is oh so short - though it was too soon for you - once again he's called for more angels - to be by his side - to live for tomorrow - We'll remember you before remembering who we are - May god rest their souls - So In Remembrance that you were here - You'll always be heavy on my heart - Darlene harris
54 Orchard Place
New haven Ct. 06511
Christopher Connor
November 7, 2004
To the Powell family: Shawn and I were in the same FDNY Academy Class (class 3 of '96). We both were from Brooklyn, so we often drove to The Rock together. We shared a love of music, motorcycles, and life. Shawn's memorial service was the most touching one I attended, everyone came- even his scoutmasters. Shawn was/is Christlike: Strong and quiet, with dignity and grace beaming from that big beautiful smile. I miss him.--Christopher Connor
Skiter Freeman
September 11, 2004
Shawn is one of my closest friends, and I say "is" because he will always be with me in my heart. In a group of great men shawn stood out as the greatest, someone you could always count on, always there for you. I have fond memories of the camping trips we would go on. The nicest guy you could ever meet. I send my deepest sympathy to Jean, Joshua and the Powell family.
We love you Shawn.
Theresa Thomas Johnston
September 11, 2003
To Peggy Powell and Family, I watch you raise him to become the greatest and the most beautiful person that he was. To you Peggy I share you greif and pain as well and just remember this, he has done his good will on earth and will continue to do his work in the heavens above. My love and prays go to you and your FAMILY stay in touch and you take care. Love Always Theresa
June Scott
July 23, 2003
I purchased a 911 bracelet as a small way of commemorating the victims of September 11th and to use as a reminder of the good people we lost that day. We must never forget them. My bracelet commemorates Shawn and I am proud to wear it. June
James Sylvester
September 13, 2002
I have SGT Powell's picture hanging in my classroom next to the US flag at Hillcrest High School as a constant reminder of his sacrifice. I thank him and you, his family, for all he accomplished. It is a comfort to be serving in the US Army in Germany in response to this tradgedy. Once again, my sincere sympathy, and may God bless you and comfort you.
SSG James G Sylvester
markie bellew
September 12, 2002
Dearest Jean & Joshua,
No words can ever say how very sorry I am that Shawn is gone. He gave the greatest gift. I never knew him but I wear his bracelet with a pray in my heart for God to wrap His big, strong arms around you both to give you strength when there is no strength left . I mourn with you both at the loss.
Ivette Easley
September 11, 2002
I would like to express my deepest condolences to the Powell family. Words can not fully express how truly sorry I am for your loss. You are in our thoughts and our prayers.
Michele Malloy
September 11, 2002
My condolences to the Powell Family. I had the pleasure of knowing a great individual. Shawn and I lived on the same block Monroe St. and attended P. S. 308. Shawn was a people person and loved helping others. He always put himself last. I am glad to know that he was able to do what he loved. I know that you are in heaven looking down and smiling at us. Shawn's smile could brighten any and every day of all the people's life's that he touched. . My prayers are and will always be with the family. GOD BLESS.
COREY WOODBERRY
September 9, 2002
I HAD THE HONOR OF ATTENDING BOTH JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL WITH SHAWN. I WAS VERY UPSET THAT HE PERISHED IN THE WORLD TRADE CENTER ATTACK. I WAS UNAWARE THAT HE BECAME A FIREFIGHTER, UNTIL I SAW HIS FACE IN THE LOCAL NEWSPAPER ON THE FRONTPAGE. WHAT I REMEMBER MOST ABOUT SHAWN WAS HIS EASY GOING NATURE AND THE GOOD TIMES WE SHARED AT I.S. 324 AND GEORGE WESTINGHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL IN BROOKLYN.
TO HIS FAMILY, I'M SO SORRY FOR YOUR GREAT LOSS. SHAWN WILL BE TRULY MISSED.
MAY JEHOVAH GOD GRANT YOU THE STRENGTH.
Carmen Santiago
September 9, 2002
Foremost, my condolences to the Powell family on the lost of your beloved son. I had the pleasure of knowing Sgt. Powell, we were in the same unit at Rocky Point. I remember one summer 1999 or 2000, it was our family day BBQ celebration. I'll never forget Shawn for his kindness & humanity, he offered to give myself and my two sons a lift to the unit. My car, a volvo at the time was not going to make the long ride up to Rocky Point. So I drove to him, somewhere in Brooklyn, I even got lost a bit, since Im from the Bronx. Bronxites always get lost in Brooklyn it seems. I arrived in time, enough that I even got a mini tour of his apt. I especially remember his african art/artifacts. We drove up in his 4x4 without any worries or concerns. My sons James&Jahleel had a wonderful family day. I just wanted to let the family know of this precious time that I shared with your son. I was in shock when I heard of his passing, I apologize for not attending the funeral/memorial. And now the 1 year mark is upon us. Again, my deepest thoughts and prayers are with u. GOD BLESS U ALL.
Mario Zuniga
September 4, 2002
Dear Mr. Powell
Thanks for your bravey that you show in September 11,2001 in the World Trade Center buildings,by saving all the people that where in the towing towers.
GOD BLESS YOU
THANK YOU BY MARIO ZUNIGA
SGT Invera Woodson-Tabor
June 26, 2002
Shawn and I served in the same Army Reserve Unit, the 343rd Combat Support Hospital, for several years. He was always a good friend, at work and at home. Engine 207 serves my neighborhood so sometimes I would hear him calling out as I ran by the stationhouse or as their truck drove by. I have a memorial card from his service on my refridgerator, so his smile greets me constantly.
The motto for the 343rd was "The Best of the Best"
HE WAS.
Michael Iezzi
June 6, 2002
Father we entrust our brother Shawn to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
Angie Campbell
May 9, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Colonel Pat Affe
April 28, 2002
Shawn was a member of my Army Reserve Unit, and was never without a smile for someone. I attended the memorial service where Shawn was honored and the love of Shawn, by family friends and members of his reserve unit, demonstrated how much he is loved. We will always remember that wonderful smile you had for us all.
COL Patricia Affe
4220th USAH
Shoreham, NY
Ryanne McAllister
April 13, 2002
I recently had the honor of being in New York City- and visiting '10 House' in ground 0. While there I (being 16 years old) along with 4 other girls, had the amazing privilage of working with our heros, and finally doing something good for them. I learned of Mr. Powell through another firefighter- and I was given his memorial bronze bracelet. He is my hero- may God bless him and his family. Jesus will be waiting there with open arms when he returns home- God bless. All my love- An American in Napa
March 26, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL HERO..SHAWN EDWARD POWELL AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY...SON..AND MANY FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE..PRAY..AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..AND ITS HEROS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK FOREVER..MAY JESUS AND ST.JOSEPH THE CARPENTERS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Dave Rodriguez
January 23, 2002
Good Speed!!!!!!!!! You worked with my best friend, on 110 Truck, Paul Mitchell!!!!!! You are both
My Hero!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Dave . Dennis,Mass FireRescue
Jercienne Laurencin
January 13, 2002
My condolences to the Powell family. I was a classmate of shawn's in elementary school in Brooklyn, New York (P.S. 308). I was deeply saddened when reading his portrait in the New York Times. I lost my father Charles A. Laurencin that horrible day on September 11, 2001. Your family is in our prayers.
Judy C
January 1, 2002
Dear Shawn,
What a wonderful name. My son's name is also, Shawn. I never met you or your family, but I wanted to express my deepest sympathy to you for the great sacrifice you made on September 11.
God opened his door on that day and you surely entered along with everyone else who perished to get your Angel Wings.
Rest In Peace and may you watch over your beloved family from above!
God Bless you, Shawn and your loving family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Teresa Jahn
December 16, 2001
We thank Shawn for dedicating his life to firefighting. Such a profession comes with a warm and caring heart. We thank him for all his did for others and for sharing his heart with each of those he helped. We are deeply sorry for your loss of Shawn. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
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