Addie R. Powell, in Memoriam
Our beloved friend and colleague, Addie Powell passed away on Thursday, April 4, 2019. She lived in New Canaan, CT for over 40 years with her husband of 52 years, Bradford J. Powell, who passed away last July.
Addie is survived by her son Adam Reid Powell, daughter-in-law Renée, and three beautiful grandchildren Kaden, Silas, and Willow. She enjoyed close family relationships with her siblings, Ivy Reid, Andrew M. Reid, and Robin R. Mickey, and Andrew’s daughters Sarah and Rachel.
Addie also shared her love with Oso, her beautiful 5-year old Newfoundland Dog, and Honey, her recently rescued 5-year old mixed-breed dog.
Addie grew up in Harrison, NY and graduated from the University of Wisconsin where she met Brad. They married in September 1966.
Addie had an illustrious career at Knoll where she was a Sales Representative in New York, the Regional Manager of the New York Region and finally, the Divisional Vice President of Sales for the Northeast Division. When Knoll owners Marshall Cogan and Stephen Swid selected outstanding performers to attend the Harvard Program for Management Development, Addie was the first person selected and the only woman in her class of 125. She recruited and mentored an incredible number of people, many of whom are still active in the “Knoll Diaspora” throughout the industry.
She left Knoll in 1986 to co-found Swid Powell with her dear friend Nan Swid. Together they launched a full range of tableware, silverware, ceramics and glassware designed by some of the most celebrated international architects of the day. Pieces from Swid Powell can be found in the “good china” collections of many design-conscious people, both at home and in their offices.
After George Kordaris departed officeinsight, leaving Brad as the sole owner, Addie kept the business side of the enterprise running smoothly by assuming the position of Office Manager. In that role she contributed to the growth and evolution of the publication and did her best to keep in check Brad’s inclination toward “boring pontification” (her term).
Addie held a special place in her heart for her large-breed dogs including Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs and St. Bernards, many of which were trained as therapy dogs. Over the years she enjoyed volunteering with her dogs to provide emotional support to patients in special needs facilities.
Funeral service and internment took place at Mt. Eden Cemetery, Hawthorne, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made In Memory of Addie R. Powell to:
Silver Hill Hospital, 208 Valley Road, New Canaan, CT 06840
Attention: Lyn Traverseor
Or donate online: www.silverhillhospital.org
