HAVERHILL: Daniel J. Powell, 56, passed away peacefully at his home following a lengthy illness on March 23, 2014. Daniel was the husband of Susan (Steele) Powell.

Born in Haverhill on May 5, 1957 he was the son of Earl B. Powell of Manchester, NH, and the late Helen M. (Skibicki) Powell.

Daniel graduated from Pentucket Regional High School, Class of 1975. He then began a 35 year career in the computer industry at Digital Equipment and later worked at Avid Technologies and Seachange International. Daniel was an accomplished guitarist with interest in drumming, playing the keyboard, and he enjoyed writing and playing his own compositions.

Besides his wife of 35 years Daniel is survived by his siblings; Barry Powell and wife Cindy of Derry, NH, Luanne Powell of Methuen, Michael Powell and wife Brenda of Haverhill, Dennis Powell of Ballston Lake, NY, Amy Noble and husband Rendell of Merrimac, MA, Andrew Powell and his partner Eileen Rogers of Kingston, MA, Kathleen Peavey and husband Brian of Merrimac, MA; brother-in-law, Michael Steele of Haverhill, and many cherished nieces and nephews. Daniel loved many animal companions on both side of the "rainbow bridge". Susan would like to thank Cheryl and Kim for their compassionate care and support during this time.

Relatives and friends are invited to the Memorial Service on Saturday, March 29, 2014 at 5:00 p.m. at Dole, Childs & Shaw Funeral Home, 148 Main Street, Haverhill. Calling hours will precede the service from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Donations in Daniels memory may be made to Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society, 63 Elm Street, Salisbury, MA 01952, or Emmaus House, 150 How Street, Haverhill, MA 01830.

Online condolences may be sent to www.dcsfuneralhome.com