David Lee Powell

Age 79, of Arlington, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, at home, with the love and care of his devoted wife, Sheryl Ann, during his final days. Military interment will take place at the DFW National Cemetery on June 17, 2025, in Dallas, Texas, with honors, including a flag presentation, “Taps,” and an honor guard. Family and friends are welcome to attend the military tribute to David Powell’s service.

Born on September 10, 1945, in Downey, California, David was a vibrant and talented soul whose passions and kindness touched many lives. He graduated from Earl Warren High School in Downey in 1963, where he excelled in tennis and surfing. An avid writer and storyteller, David’s creative spirit was evident in all he did. His early years were marked by active involvement in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including serving a two-year mission in Brazil, where he learned Portuguese and deepened his faith.

David earned his bachelor’s degree in business from The University of Texas at Arlington in 1985. His love for music was boundless, and he amassed an impressive record collection. The majestic lion was his favorite animal, symbolizing strength and nobility. His family—his “Pride”—and extended relatives brought purpose and joy to his life. His mother’s unwavering support and encouragement helped shape his outgoing, determined nature.

A dedicated father, David raised Kristin and Erika, sharing countless cherished moments—teaching them about synonyms and antonyms, reading science fiction stories at bedtime, and engaging in chess and many board games. He loved going on volksmarches, dancing, singing silly songs, tickle fights, and sharing his passion for computers. Some knew him affectionately as “Grandpa Duck,” thanks to his playful duck voice and jovial humor. An artist at heart, he crafted drawings for tennis and chess tournaments, made latchwork rugs, and even experimented with leather tooling to create his own chessboard and belt.

On February 14, 1986, David married Sheryl Ann Soto in Arlington, Texas, sharing 39 wonderful years together. His first marriage was to Linda Peterson on July 26, 1969, in the Los Angeles Latter-Day Saint Temple, with whom he had four children: Kristin, Erika, Dorothy, and Russell. Later, he was married to Merita Knapp in Pirmasens, Germany, on April 10, 1981.

A proud veteran, David served in the United States Army as a signalman from 1969 to 1982, living in various states and abroad. After his military career, he settled in Texas, working in the computer industry before founding his own company, Data Train. Later in life, he dedicated himself to genealogy, creating ShoeStringGenealogy.com to help others research their family history affordably. He was proud to trace family lines back to the 10th century, and he generously shared his knowledge through live chats and online classes, inspiring many worldwide.

David’s passions extended to spending quality time with Sheryl, their dogs, and his beloved family. He was preceded in death by his father, John “Jack” Russell Powell, and his mother, Beverly Jeannette Powell of California.

He is survived by his children and their spouses: Kristin Michele and Ramon Morales of Fort Worth, TX; Erika Powell-Burson and Jefferson Burson of Harvard, MA; Dorothy Elizabeth and Marc Adams of Temecula, CA; and Russell Ammon and Morgan Powell of Salt Lake City, UT. His grandchildren—Jonathon, Ramon IV, Erika, Evangelina, Rose, Tristan, Zoë, Xander, Quinn, and Evey, Nathan, Jacob, Gabriel, Amber, Allison, and Samuel—along with 14 great-grandchildren, cherished family members, and his brother Edmund and wife Penni of Central California, mourn his loss.

David’s legacy of love, humor, artistic talent, and curiosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.