Dan Fenton, 1950-2012

by Theodore Ellison

I was saddened to hear that Dan Fenton passed away recently. He was one of several Northern California glass artists that took a fresh approach to stained glass during the 1970s (see Otto Rigan’s ‘New Glass’)

While I didn’t know Dan well, he was always generous with his extensive knowledge and was enthusiastic to answer a technical question or to steer me in the right direction. His invaluable manual on kiln work has been central to all of the hot glass experiments we’ve done here in the workshop. His contribution to the craft, one-of-a-kind spirit and depth of knowledge will be missed. My deepest sympathies go out to his partner Patty O’Doherty.

Rest in peace Dan.