Paul A. Steffensen
August 24, 2016
Paul A. Steffensen began his life journey in Brooklyn, NY, born October 19, 1952 to parents Poul and Elie Steffensen. Paul attended school in Chicago, IL before moving to Des Moines in 1978 to attend Grandview College. He met his soul-mate Donna in 1980 and together they made their home in Des Moines.
Paul was a well known artist in the Des Moines area. He had many talents
including the ability to take nothing and make it into something spectacular. Paul was known to mentor other artists and share his knowledge with anyone who shared his interests. One of Paul's most proud accomplishments includes an Emmy nomination for his work as Art Director for the film Harvest of Fire.
Paul was a member of several organizations including the Academy of
Television Arts and Sciences, Iowa Motion Picture Association, IATSE Local 67, and the IPMS Model club. He enjoyed sharing traditions from his Danish heritage with his family. Being a grandpa was a true joy to Paul which he expressed often by wearing his Grandpa sweatshirt. Paul and his wife Donna shared a special love and connection that not all people are lucky enough to experience. He will always be Donna's entire heart.
Paul left this world on August 24, 2016 at the age of 63. He will be thought of often, truly missed and forever loved.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by the love his life Donna and their children; son Mark (Gina) Bashor, daughter Kari (Damien) Brannen, grandchildren Sabrina, Avery, Karsen, Chris, Treyton, Broc and Davidson. One great-grandson due to be born this October, and his brother Carl (Frances) of Houston, Texas plus numerous additional family and friends.
Memorial contributions may be directed to The Temple of Performing Arts, Attn: Joshua Barlage, managing director in loving memory of Paul.
No services are planned.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Scott Hatfield
08/30/2016
Mrs. Steffensen and family:
I met Paul in the late 1970's while he was a student at Grandview College. I am an architect here in Des Moines and I worked for a firm that was designing the "new student center" at the time. Paul built a fantastic model of the proposed design for the college to utilize in fundraising.
I enjoyed working with Paul and utilized him for a few more models through the years.
Paul was a fantastic person and so very talented. I know he is missed by many.
Sincerely,
Scott A. Hatfield. AIA. IIDA
SVPA Architects Inc.
Jim Lund
08/30/2016
Carl, Donna, and families. Very sorry for your loss. Paul was a gifted man. We knew him in grade school, high school, and college years. Started together in kindergarten. In high school, Paul took four years of architectural drafting, and we sure wondered about that. Little did we know his artistic abilities. My last visit, some 30+ years ago, I saw his awesome models of buildings and city projects for Des Moines designers. Wow. And proud of you Paul, to hear about your contribution to the arts, including the IMPA. from brothers Jim and John Lund.
JB
08/28/2016
My heart is breaking, Paul was my brother and friend. One of the kindest, most talented people I have ever met. He helped me with too many projects to list and will be forever missed by me and my girls.
Shirley Long, IMPA
08/28/2016
Paul was there from the beginning when we founded the Iowa Motion Picture Association. He was a Board member for many years -- and again in recent years, right up to the present. He helped put on the original Awards shows, designing sets with dramatic backgrounds and IMPA logos -- and he helped us design Golden Globes posters. Paul carefully prepared and delivered amazing workshops for the Iowa Motion Picture Association on Pyrotechnics, Special Effects, and the many skills and duties of the Artistic Director. Donna, we remember that you were often there with Paul at events and were sending our love & gratitude to Paul & his entire family for his creative contributions. He was a warm, wonderful person and he was delighted to tell us about his grandchildren.
Frances Steffensen
08/25/2016
Donna, words cannot express how sorry and sad we are. We hope the 36 years of memories you and Paul had together will sustain and comfort you.
Nancy Lamasters Kappel
08/25/2016
Mark, Gina, and Children, our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of Mr. Steffensen's family.
Sharyn Baybayan
08/25/2016
Donna, my heart felt prayers and sympathy to you and your family. I will never forget your help and friendship during my time of need. I pray that friends and family will be there to support you and give you strength during this time of loss. May God be with each of you! Sharyn Baybayan