Schnell, Donald Elmer

Donald “Don” Elmer Schnell, MD, 82, of Pulaski, Virginia passed away on May 16, 2019 at Highland Ridge Rehab Center in Dublin, Virginia after an extended illness. He was born on June 6, 1936 in Toledo, Ohio to Elmer Henry and Margaret Elizabeth (Kovacs) Schnell.

He received his medical degree in 1961 from Ohio State University and he practiced Pathology for over 40 years. Early in his career, he served 2 years in the US Army as a Captain.

He leaves behind his wife Brenda Freeze Schnell of Pulaski, Virginia as well as two daughters, Lee Anne Stimpson of Lewisville, NC and Kristen Powell (Jason) of Statesville, NC. Also, surviving him are four grandchildren, Joseph Stimpson, Jacob Powell, Janna Powell, Jessica Powell and several nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Margaret,and his brother Richard Schnell (Peggy).

Don had varied interests throughout his life including writing, photography, hiking and study of nature. He spent many decades researching, growing, and photographing carnivorous plants. This interest lead to authoring books and articles on the subject. In 1972, Don worked with fellow enthusiast, Joe Mazrimas, to release the first Carnivorous Plant Newsletter which is still in circulation. The newsletter lead to the formation of the International Carnivorous Plant Society in 1980 which is known worldwide. Don was also a model railroad enthusiast in the last few decades and he spent many hours constructing layouts and working with his trains.

Don will be interred at the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Dublin, Virginia. The family will gather at a later time to celebrate his life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Dublin, Virginia.