Married for 61 years, until Morris’ death in 2002, the Pynoos’ worked as a collaborative team with their visions constantly becoming reality.
A civil engineer by training, Morris Pynoos was credited with designing the first prototype for the nail gun to help Howard Hughes make the Spruce Goose. He built the historic One Wilshire building and created the glass walled art center celebrating 60 Years of Living Architecture located in Barnsdall Park.
Rita Pynoos was an accomplished weaver and designer of unique acrylic furniture. For many years she has served as a Commissioner of the Smithsonian American Art Museum. She was the founding member of Women in Philanthropy.
Rita Pynoos continued as a steadfast supporter of DEF until her passing in 2019. Her son Jon Pynoos sits on the board of DEF.