Donald Powell Obituary

Powell, Donald D.

Donald D. Powell, Chicago architect known for his extraordinary commitment to detail and fine design, died at the age of 92 on November 1, 2021. Don was born in Fargo, ND to parents George Powell and Anna Shaw Powell. His life story highlights an expanding world – from Fargo to Minneapolis to Chicago and the world beyond.

Don became a student of architecture when a neighbor in Wayzata, MN contracted renowned architect Philip Johnson to design the family home. Don watched the building progress and was impressed at the admiration the architect and his team garnered from other famous architects and students of architecture.

Don graduated with a B.A. in Architecture from NDSU, and then served as an officer in the US Air Force. After his service, he was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship Travel Award in Europe. Don launched his architecture career in Minneapolis, then moved to Chicago in 1961 when he joined the firm of Skidmore Owings & Merrill.

In 1976, Don and fellow architect Robert Kleinschmidt established their own firm, Powell/Kleinschmidt. Together, they served many notable clients whose projects showcased their expertise in interior architecture—a term that Don originated to describe the specialization of using space functionally and intellectually, whether it be a residence or an office interior.

In 1989, Don was inducted into the Interior Design Hall of Fame. He received the "Distinguished Firm" Award (1976-90) and AIA Award (1990). Contract Design magazine cited Powell/Kleinschmidt as one of the top 20 interior design firms of the last quarter century (2000). Don was presented the Outstanding Leadership Award in the interior design field from IIDA (2007)

Among Don's most notable projects: The Northwestern Law School; IIT Kent College of Law; Paul Stuart Chicago; Illinois National Bank, Springfield; Harris Trust and Savings west wing interiors; and interiors for four Prudential Insurance branches throughout the US; University of Chicago Regenstein Library interior.

Throughout his career, Don traveled the world for inspiration and to collect art for his clients and himself. His art collection now forms a generous and important contribution to the Plains Art Museum in Fargo, ND, a destination he felt was deserving of fine art.

Don enjoyed many trusted friendships during his life. He was kind, intuitive, soft-spoken, a gentleman in every aspect of his life. His word was sacred, his motives always pure. He generously supported The Arts Club of Chicago, The Art Institute of Chicago, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Don was preceded in death by his sister Ruth Powell Larson, and his brothers John, George, and William Powell. Dorothy Gustafson, his longtime best friend whom he considered another sister, also preceded him in death.

Don is survived by his loving life and business partner, Robert Kleinschmidt, his devoted nephew Stephen (Patsy) Larson, and twelve other nieces and nephews.

The family will be forever grateful to Teresa Poznanski, who lovingly and responsibly cared for Don for the last forty years and to Margaret Ford, Don's devoted nurse for most of the past decade.

Memorials may be directed in Don's name to the Plains Art Museum, 704 First Avenue North, Fargo ND 58102.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by Cremation Society of Illinois, 773-281-5058 or www.cremation-society.com.

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