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David S. Fehr, 88

September 17, 2023

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — David Fehr’s Obituary

Some people I know, or know of, have written their own obituaries. Perhaps they do this to spare their loved ones from the task at a most difficult time or to make sure that nothing gets left out. So, I wonder, why can’t I do that- Shouldn’t people read what I thought was significant about my life, not what my children may have remembered- Shouldn’t those who know me actually recognize me as they read, as opposed to wondering about some highly accomplished person they hardly knew-

Here goes:

Born: July 25, 1935 in West Reading, PA

Died: September 17, 2023 on the wrong side of the tracks in Williamstown, MA

Cause of Death: Apathy

Parents: Stuart and Ethel (Dunkelberger) Fehr

Ethnicity: Pennsylvania Dutch

Nickname: The Recluse on the Hill

Motto: Use it up!

Marriages: Jo Ferguson, 1953-2007. A wonderful 54-year marriage.

Gigi Douglas, 2015-2018. A short but very sweet union.

Children: Deb, Jeff, Stephanie, Penny

Grandchildren: Duane, Jesse, Lee, Wes

Great-Grandchildren: Cole, Caleb

Extended family: Doug, Patsy, Rui, Harold, Jarrett, Steve, Mary, Max, Allana, Sarah, Pablo, Luis

Education: Some

Organizations and boards: Many, but none of any real consequence

Hobby: Non-prize-winning journalist

Likes: Carbs, Ephs

Dislikes: Pumping own gas, Republican politicians

Interment: Private

Service: None

If you wish to make a contribution in my memory, please consider Pine Cobble School, Williamstown Youth Center, and the Williams College Department of Athletics. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.

Recollections & Sympathy For the Family
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Dave was very nice to me as a grad student in the early ‘90’s. He knew (thru Deb) that I didn’t know too many up in Billsville so he introduced me to many WTF and Berkshire locals. I especially remember a round of golf at Taconic with him and Jim Naughton. Thanks Dave for connecting people the easy way that you did. And if we didn’t say it, we appreciate it. RIP.
from: Jeff Provost	on: 09-26-2023

Godspeed, David. Your big heart and open arms made Gigi the happiest woman on Earth in her last years. Forever grateful to you.
from: Catherine Marks Yamamoto	on: 09-25-2023

"Education: Some" understates the degree to which Dave was one of the College's great auditors -- gracing literally dozens of courses during his retirement. (He was fond of pulling out of his pocket a folded piece of paper that listed every such course!) I had the privilege of hosting Dave in at least 3 courses -- as well as a single tutorial session (which Dave eagerly requests to visit) -- over the years. He was both a gentleman and a character (in the best sense of the word). Sharp wit, lively sense of humor, deep curiosity, critical eye, quick with a great turn of phrase, always willing to share his wisdom and experience. I've been fortunate enough in my career to develop friendships outside of class -- email exchanges, the occasional lunch (which Dave said he, "as a man of a certain age," would insist on paying for) -- with 2-3 of my community auditors, and Dave was one. I will miss him.
from: Justin Crowe	on: 09-24-2023

Loved every minute I spent with him. Such a lively mind. His perspectives, at least for me, always hit the target.
from: Dave Johnson	on: 09-22-2023

I loved his laugh, the sparkle in his eyes and his passion for art and information. The unique way he devoured newspapers, clipping articles and sharing. He always made me laugh. Thank you Dave for the many shows, trips to Tanglewood and dinners. Your generosity was unparalleled and your friendship previous. You will be missed.
from: Mary Maroun	on: 09-22-2023

Met Dave a few times over the years. Always remember a Penn State vs UConn soccer game in the early 80s. A man to remember! Godspeed. Heaven got much more interesting. Love and light to all those left behind.
from: Donna Murray	on: 09-22-2023

Deb, Jeff, Steph and Penny, So sorry to hear about your Dad. I remember warmly his vibrancy and joie de vivre. … And him introducing me to “tower ball” in your rec room! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
from: Jeff Howard	on: 09-21-2023

A delightful hiking buddy, a fellow Pittsfield Mets fan, a gentle soul with a quick wit whom I fondly remember and greatly miss.
from: Trudy Cochran	on: 09-21-2023

Great obituary, David. Never knew you, but wish I had. Glad you got to state your final words about life. I certainly agree with you about Republican politicians. May you rest in peace, sir! Hope we meet someday in eternity. Your friend in spirit, Carl
from: Carl Villanueva	on: 09-21-2023

My father loved and respected him so much. They started their friendship at age 5. My mother and father loved enjoying time with him at the Vineyard. You will be missed but your spirit lives on.
from: Kristen Comley	on: 09-21-2023

I did a lot work on his home in Williamtown. Really nice person.
from: Jeffrey Vigna	on: 09-21-2023