The editorial cartooning community is mourning the loss of American cartoonist Paul Henry Fell Jr., who passed away at the age of 80. His death was announced on June 29, 2026, by longtime friend and colleague Shawn Peirce on behalf of the family, with The Daily Cartoonist sharing news of the respected Nebraska artist’s passing.
According to those closest to him, Fell preferred simplicity even in farewell. In one of his final emails, he wrote, “It’s been a fun ride.” Friends noted that he never wanted a grand tribute, believing instead that a life well lived was celebration enough.
From Art Teacher to Editorial Cartoonist
Paul Fell began his professional journey in the early 1970s as a high school art instructor in Nebraska while developing his skills as a cartoonist. His editorial cartoons were first distributed to local newspapers through Maverick Media in 1974, introducing readers across Nebraska to his distinctive visual commentary.
By 1976, his work was regularly appearing in The Lincoln Journal, where his observations on local politics and community life quickly earned him recognition among readers.
The Lincoln Journal Years
Fell’s growing reputation led to his appointment in 1984 as staff editorial cartoonist and art director for The Lincoln Journal. During this period he also created the popular Saturday Sketchbook, a feature that combined illustration, humor and everyday observations with his recognizable artistic style.
For nearly a decade, he documented political events, civic debates and social issues through thoughtful editorial cartoons that balanced satire with approachable storytelling.
His tenure at the newspaper came to an end in 1992 when financial pressures resulted in newsroom layoffs. Like many newspaper cartoonists affected by the industry’s changing economics, Fell returned to freelance work while continuing to publish his syndicated cartoons throughout Nebraska.
A Cartoonist Beyond the Newspaper
Following his departure from the newsroom, Paul Fell continued to reach audiences through self-syndicated editorial cartoons and became known nationally for an innovative experiment as a “radio cartoonist,” translating visual political humor into spoken commentary.
Although his professional relationship with the newspaper eventually ended in 2007 after a disagreement involving the publication’s ethics policy and political campaign involvement, Fell remained committed to expressing his views through independent cartooning.
Throughout his career he covered national events, Nebraska politics and the state’s beloved Huskers sports teams, building a reputation for accessible commentary and thoughtful political satire.
An Evolving Artistic Voice
Over the decades, Paul’s drawing style evolved into a clean, elegant and highly recognizable visual language. While his artwork became increasingly minimalist, it never lost its ability to communicate complex political ideas with clarity and wit.
Friends and fellow cartoonists remember him not only for his artistic talent but also for his generosity, humility and quiet sense of humor.
His final words to friends—”It’s been a fun ride”—reflect the same warmth and optimism that characterized both his personality and his work.
Remembering Paul Fell
Paul Fell belonged to a generation of American newspaper editorial cartoonists who chronicled decades of political and social change through pen and ink. His cartoons captured the character of Nebraska while also speaking to broader national conversations.
As newspapers evolved and the editorial cartoon profession faced unprecedented challenges, Fell continued creating, adapting and sharing his perspective with readers who appreciated thoughtful visual journalism.
The editorial cartoon community has lost a respected colleague, but Paul Fell’s work remains an enduring reminder of the important role editorial cartoonists play in documenting history, questioning power and connecting with readers through humor and insight.
He is survived by his wife, Arlene, family members and countless friends, colleagues and readers whose lives were enriched by his cartoons.
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