David A. Powell

David A Powell, 77, passed away on friday, June 28th, 2024. A respected artist and art teacher, he is
survived by his wife Diane B. Powell and son Joshua A. Powell. Born on October 31st in Amityville, New
York to Charles C. and Loretta A. Powell.
David graduated from Carroll College in 1968 with a BS in Art and Art Education. He studied under Wis
Guthrie who had a strong influence on David's development as an artist and use of found objects in his
own artwork. David would later receive his MA in Visual Arts from Cardinal Stritch University in 2004.
As an Art teacher for many years, David shaped the lives of generations of students. He taught high
school and middle school art at Waukesha Public Schools from 1970 to 1980 and then taught high school
and middle school art at Shorewood Public Schools from 1986 until his retirement in 2007. David had a
strong commitment to his students, opening his art room before school and during lunch. He provided
space to students to work, learn and be themselves. As part of that commitment he was the advisor for
the Shorewood HS LGBT student organization.
Art was very important to David. After his retirement he was able to dedicate more time to his artwork.
His pieces are distinctive and creative showcasing both his imagination as an artist and his skill as a
craftsman. David also loved the theater and regularly attended the theater with his wife, Diane.
David was the center of family gatherings. During the big Christmas Eve party he would always make
sure there were enough gifts for the White Elephant game. He was an excellent cook and always
contributed great food to gatherings of family and friends. His ribs were amazing, he loved to grill, and he
knew how to mix a good Dark and Stormy and many other drinks. His kindness and dry sense of humor
made his presence a welcome part of family events.
Whether it was taking on the role of Father Christmas at Hawks Inn or working as Stage Designer for
Summer Stage of Delafield, David was very involved in the community. He Served on the board of
Milwaukee Area Teachers of Art (MADA) from 2005-2011, and as President in 2009. He was highly
involved as an adult leader in the Boy Scouts in the 1990s earning the Wood Badge and membership in
Order of the Arrow.
From 1968-1969 David served with the US Navy. He was stationed in Saigon, Vietnam in 1969 as an
English Language Instructor at the Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Language School. David was
recognized with the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat "V" for his outstanding performance of duty.
David had a strong circle of friends and family. He was grateful for all they have done for him and his
wife. He wished to thank brother-in-law, Bruce Bush and his wife Cathy, cousin Connie Bosch and
husband, Pete, and dear friends Nicky D'Attilio, Carol Joyce, her husband Paul Hackle, and children
Fran Joyce, Peter Joyce, Heather Ebbott. David considered all these friends as family.
n lieu of flowers, David requested donations be made to Hawks Inn of Delafield (https://hawksinn.org/become-a-friend-donate/) or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/give/memorials-and-dedications.html?sc_icid=wtg-mm-memorial-giving) in his honor.