DAVID ELLSWORTH POWELL

February 25, 1933 – May 6, 2023

David Powell, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away on May 6, 2023. In his final weeks, he was surrounded by his family, who were the most important people in his life. He was 90 years old.

David Ellsworth Powell was born on February 25, 1933 in Portland, Oregon. He was the oldest of three boys. Dave grew up in Portland, attending St. Steven’s and St. Patrick’s Catholic Schools in his youth and graduating from Benson Polytechnic High School. He attended Willamette University in Salem, Oregon as a music major. One year later, he enlisted in the Army and was sent to Kagnew Station in Asmara, Ethiopia, as an International morse code specialist. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Gabriella Predicatori. Gabi worked at the army base as an office assistant. After their courtship, which included American movies and Italian family dinners, they were married at the Catholic Cathedral in Asmara, on April 8, 1956. They were married for 63 years.

After settling in the Pacific Northwest, Dave and Gabi had 5 children: Angela, Gloria (Cocca), David, Renato, and Luciana. Dave and Gabi ran a traditional home and instilled in their kids the importance of faith, family, and Italian food! Dave worked hard and was the main breadwinner, while Gabi ran a busy and loving home for the kids. Dave went on to become a successful businessman in various ventures over the years.

When anyone was around Dave, they immediately felt his warm charm and friendly disposition. Dave had a confident, inviting presence about him, that you could feel, even during those few times he was not talking. He was a very intelligent man, with a great sense of humor. He adored his wife and did everything to make her happy and feel valued. He always worked hard to support and provide for his family, all while honoring God.

In later years, Dave’s passion was his grandchildren. He had 15 grandchildren, and he was so proud to be called their Nonno. Dave and Gabi were regular spectators at everything from sporting events to dance recitals, Open Mic Nights to plays and musicals. He rarely missed any events involving his grandkids. Additionally, the grandchildren could always count on advice and teachings from their Nonno.

Dave’s favorite past times included golfing, fishing, sports, watching movies and playing the piano. At one time, Dave was quite an accomplished pianist! Gabi was always so thrilled and loved whenever Dave sat at the piano to play.

Dave finished his professional career at Multnomah County Animal Services, as a front desk clerk. He was very passionate about this position and truly loved the interaction with the people and dogs that he got to see every day. This began a love affair that Dave had with “man’s best friend,” that lasted the rest of his life.

Dave will be remembered as a devoted, charismatic, loving man who always chose to have a positive attitude. His willingness to look at any situation with optimism and hope will be remembered by all who knew him. His lifelong commitment and love for his faith and family will be forever remembered. He will be missed, but certainly has left a wonderful legacy to all of us.

Dave is survived by his brother, Victor (Judi), his children: Angela Ward, Cocca Bancroft (Jeff), David (Kimmie), Renato (Tonya), and Luciana Fischer (Jacob), his 15 grandchildren: Tyran, Christopher, Briana, Daiva, Domenico, Lela, Parrish, Mallori, Livy, Francesco, Brendan, Mariella, Gabriel, Isabella, Davie, and 4 greatgrandchildren: Tucker, Rhett, Ever, and Rainer. He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Opal Powell, and brother James.

His final resting place will be with his wife at Willamette National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made in Dave’s name to the Knights of Columbus, St. Therese of the Child Jesus Catholic Church: www.stthereseor.org/knights-of-columbus