Dustin Dean Poche’, 44, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, February 28, 2023 in the quiet peace of his home.
Dustin was born March 31, 1978 in Russell. He was one of two sons born to David Humphrey and Nancy Marie (Dole) Poche’. He grew up in Russell, Kansas and Gramercy, Louisiana and graduated from Russell High School in 1997. He then attended the Colorado Institute of Art in Denver receiving his BFA. Outside of Russell, Kansas Dustin lived in Gramercy, Louisiana, New York City, New York and Denver, Colorado. Dustin and lifelong partner, Matthew Driscoll, lived together until Matt’s passing on October 17, 2020.
Dustin, a globally recognized sculptor, attracted to unconventional beauty, classic glamour and humor specialized in whimsical character-based work, antique doll restoration, and his widely known ornaments of witches continued working until his last moments. Much of his work was built upon his experience as a drag artist, costume designer and his formative years as a window dresser in New York City at a prominent and internationally renowned department store, Jeffrey New York. Above all, he considered his mother, Nancy, his muse and lifelong inspiration.
Surviving family include his brother, Shane Poche’ (Kelly Dolezal) of Russell, Kansas, his sister Hayley Quave of Hammond, Louisiana, father, David Poche, Louisiana, nieces and nephews; Hannah Poche, Chandler Poche, Madison Barrera, Calum Quave, Trayson Brown, Kaitin Dolezal, as well as countless friends and loyal admires of his artwork both locally and globally.
Dustin was preceded in death by his mother, Nancy (Dole) Poche’ Stoppel; grandfather, Kenny Dole; grandmother, Dorothy Brown; paternal grandmother, Evelyn Poche’ and paternal grandfather, Bill Poche’.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday, March 6, 2023 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with the family present from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A celebration of Dustin’s life will be held 10:30 AM, Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary. The family and close friends of Dustin will be hosting a reception Tuesday evening 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the Dienes Cultural Center. All are welcome to share in light appetizers, refreshments, and fond memories.
In lieu flowers, The Dustin Poche’ Memorial Fund has been established. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary.