Daniel James Schnell

Daniel James Schnell was born on April 5th, 1944 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota to Marguerite Flannery Schnell and Alphonso Schnell. He grew up on a farm near Ramona, South Dakota. He received his bachelors degree from Dakota State University, and Masters Degree in Industrial Arts from the University of Northern Colorado in 1968.

Dan taught Ceramics and Fine Art at Aurora Hinkley High School in Colorado for 30 years before retiring. He was the chair of the Fine Arts department with many of his students achieving local and national awards. In addition to teaching, Dan owned and operated Pyramid Design, building commercial and residential buildings. Dan’s artistic talent, love for art, and creativity were most exemplified through his Frank Lloyd Wright influenced home, which he designed and built in Elizabeth, Colorado in the early 1970’s.

Throughout his adult life, Dan was involved in the Catholic church. He created liturgical art for several Catholic churches in both South Dakota and Colorado. His art remains in multiple parishes in addition to the Diocese of Colorado Springs Headquarters. He was a founding member of Our Lady of the Visitation Catholic Church in Elizabeth, Colorado, and worked tirelessly with both the design and building of the church and rectory.

Dan was also invested in his community through volunteering and leadership roles, including over 30 years with Elizabeth Stampede Rodeo. He received the Elizabeth Stampede Pioneer Achievement Award in 2014 for his efforts. He was also involved in the Elbert/Douglas County Cattleman’s Association, Elbert County 4-H, Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship, Tennessee Walking Horse Association, and Knights of Columbus.

Daniel’s family is his wife of 54 years, Priscilla Vigil Schnell of Elizabeth, Colorado Daughter Sarah Klassen, Son-in-Law Justin Klassen, Grandson Max Schnell and wife Diane Schnell, Great Grandson Oliver Schnell, and Granddaughter Alexa Hagans of Elizabeth, Colorado Son Lucas Schnell, Daughter-in-Law Jessica Schnell, Granddaughters Kate, Rose, and Emma Schnell of Erie, Colorado Daughter Maria Schnell-Brakeley, Son-in-Law Harley Schnell-Brakeley, and Granddaughters Lennox and Desi Schnell-Brakeley of Franktown, Colorado Brother Raymond Schnell of Randolph, Nebraska

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Daniel J Schnell Memorial Youth Scholarship to support the youth of Elbert and Douglas counties at https://everloved.com/life-of/daniel-schnell/