Lasting Memories

Dawn Marie Podell
Jan. 1, 1944-Feb. 21, 2024
Palo Alto, California
Submitted by Phoenix Podell

Dawn was born and raised with her brothers Tom and Richard in Tracy, CA

Dawn was extremely intelligent, and graduated from high school at just 17, and later received her bachelor's degree in anthropology from San Francisco State University.

Dawn married Allen Podell in 1966, and they eventually settled in Palo Alto. While raising their two daughters Phoenix and Shani, Dawn was an active and devoted wife and mother who was deeply involved in her children's schools and activities.

Dawn was a deep believer in the importance of diversity and opportunity for all, Dawn was a fluent Spanish speaker, and was active in the community on several committees and on the board of Peninsula School.

Dawn was an accomplished artist and was always involved in art of many forms, and held several art shows. Dawn also worked as a bookkeeper for Allen’s business for many years, and started her own company in the 1980s.

Dawn was a talented cook who hosted many elaborate dinners for friends, family, and Allen’s clients, and greatly enjoyed sharing her recipes with her children and grandchildren.

Dawn had many friends from all over the world that valued her fierce independence, honesty, loyalty, and true compassion for others.

Dawn was also a passionate animal lover who greatly enjoyed her time with her many cats during the later years of her life.

Dawn was preceded in death by her grandmother, Margaret Spetter, her parents Edward and Ellen Spetter (Driscoll), her brothers William Driscoll, Tom and Richard Spetter, sister in law, Shoni Spetter, and her niece, Amanda Spetter.

She is survived by her daughters Phoenix and Shani, and their children William, Shelby, Ryan, and Spencer, her sister, Betty, her nephews and nieces Jeffrey, Richard, David, Elizabeth, and Bridget, great nieces and nephews Janelle, Alyssa, Ava, William, Nathan, and Seth, and great great nieces and nephews Dominic, Elliana, and Braxton.