This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: Lace_Lynch Surnames: Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/surnames.powell/6742/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Eugene Mondt Powell, of Valley Cottage, New York, passed away at his home on Nov. 10, 2007 surrounded by loved ones. He was 84 years old. Gene was born on July 14, 1923 in Indiana, raised in Ohio, but made New York his home since 1947. He served in the 106th Infantry Division in World War II and was a POW at Stalag 9B in Germany. After the war, Gene made his career as a painter and scenic artist. He studied painting at The Art Institute of Chicago and The Art Students League of New York, was awarded the John Simon Guggenheim Fellowship in creative painting in 1952, and has exhibited paintings in many galleries including The Art Institute of Chicago, Brooklyn Museum, Toledo Museum of Art and University of Oklahoma. He painted scenery for Broadway theater (including Fiddler on the Roof, Hello Dolly and Cats), major motion pictures (including Sophie's Choice, Raging Bull, The Wiz and All That Jazz), opera, ballet (New York City Ballet) and television (including NYPD, Sesame Street, The Cosby Show). During that time he served as a trustee for the United Scenic Artists Pension and Welfare Funds. After retiring, Gene was involved in the restoration of Lyndhurst, a historic gothic revival mansion in Tarrytown, N.Y. Since 1988, Gene served the American Ex-Prisoners of War as commander and treasurer of the Hudson Valley chapter, treasurer and commander of the New York chapter, national director for the northeast region, and national service officer. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Neva Stickney Powell; son, Gene (Gino) Powell; daughters, Chris Powell and Abby Powell; and grandchildren, Jesse and Caleb Welton and Hannah Powell. Gene touched so many lives as a friend, mentor, and teacher, and through his numerous charitable contributions. He was well known for his sense of humor, generosity, and kindness toward all people. He loved all kinds of music and enjoyed singing and playing the guitar and a dulcimer that he made by hand. His largeness of spirit and his gentle soul will be sorely missed. A celebration of his life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to United Hospice of Rockland, 11 Stokum Lane, New City, NY 10956, or the American Indian College Fund, P.O. Box 172449, Denver, CO 80217-9797. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.