Montpelier, VT Earl L. Fechter of Montpelier, Vermont passed away peacefully and in the comfort of his family on April 7, 2019, a day after his 82nd birthday. Earl was born in Buffalo, NY on April 6, 1937, son of the late Herbert P. Fechter, Sr. and the late Grace M. Rush. Earl is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Juliana G. Fechter; sons Earl F. Fechter (spouse Kathy) and Jason H. Fechter (spouse Michele); grandchildren Earl Dominic Fechter and Lorenza Lili Fechter; brother-in-law Peter F. Cassino; nephews W. Thomas Dean (spouse Laurie) and Herbert P. Fechter, III (spouse Deanna); and nieces Lisa Zehler (late Michael) and Ayme Van Riet (spouse Rich). Earl was the cherished brother of the late Grace M. Small (nee Fechter) (spouse William) and the late Herbert P. Fechter, Jr. (spouse Barbara). Earl was an accomplished artist and teacher for more than four decades. He began his career teaching art in public and private high schools in New York and Massachusetts. He retired as Professor Emeritus of Studio Art from Norwich University after teaching in the Art Department for 33 years, from 1976 to 2009. He taught classes at Norwichs campuses in Northfield and in Montpelier, (at former Vermont College). Professor Fechters art courses were very popular among students at Norwich University every semester he taught, resulting in waiting lists for students hopeful to enroll. Even decades after graduating, students would contact him or send cards describing fond memories of learning to draw, paint, print or sculpt in his classes, in appreciation of his time as their professor. Earl received an MFA and BFA in Painting and Drawing from Boston Universitys School of Fine and Applied Arts, and a BS in Art Education from SUNYs Buffalo State Teachers College. At Boston University, he studied with numerous acclaimed artists including his mentor Walter Murch, (serving as Professor Murchs teaching fellow), Karl Fortess, and other members of the faculty. In summer 1967, Earl was awarded a selective and highly regarded Yaddo Fellowship in Saratoga, NY. During his career as a professional artist and teacher, Earl exhibited his works in many venues across the United States and internationally, including among them, the Albright Knox Gallery (Buffalo, NY), Berkshire Museum (Pittsfield, MA), Hood Museum of Art (Dartmouth College), and in exhibitions internationally. Growing up on the East Side of Buffalo, Earl worked in his youth starting at age 10 delivering groceries for George Brauns grocery store, later at Roger Smiths Pharmacy, and ultimately at the American Standard Radiator factory. He was involved in the Boy Scouts of America and achieved the award of Eagle Scout with Bronze Palm. During several summers he was the waterfront director at the Boy Scouts Scout Haven summer camp near Buffalo. Earl was an excellent student and graduated from Buffalos highly selective Canisius High School, before pursuing higher education. Earl served in the US Army Reserves as a combat medic during the Vietnam War era. He served his country between 1961-1966, and was on active duty for a period of time. He was honorably discharged from the US Army in 1966. In addition to his love of art, Earl enjoyed a keen interest in politics, psychology, gardening, classic movies, World War II documentaries, attending his sons sporting events, and most of all being with his family. His family describes him as a great, intelligent and talented man who was caring, patient, supportive, strong, dedicated, unwavering in his convictions, always dependable and fair, with unparalleled insight and excellent judgment. He was a protector and provider to his family, who cherished him. He will also be missed by friends and students. A funeral mass will be held at St. Augustines Church in Montpelier on Saturday, April 27, 2019 at 12:00 pm (noon). Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at www.guareandsons.com.