By David Robert| Published: June 30, 2026 | Last Updated: June 30, 2026
LINCOLN, Nebraska — Paul Henry Fell Jr., the longtime Nebraska editorial cartoonist whose distinctive illustrations chronicled decades of politics, public affairs, and Cornhusker culture, has died at the age of 80.
News of Fell’s passing was shared by family friend and fellow cartoonist Shawn Peirce and later reported by The Daily Cartoonist, prompting tributes from cartoonists, journalists, former colleagues, and readers across Nebraska and beyond.
For more than five decades, Fell’s work appeared in newspapers throughout Nebraska, where his thoughtful editorial cartoons, sports illustrations, and humorous sketches earned him recognition as one of the state’s most influential visual commentators.
A Career That Helped Define Nebraska Editorial Cartooning
Although born in Massachusetts in 1946, Fell made Nebraska his home after moving west to study art and play college football. He built a career that reflected both his artistic talent and deep connection to the people and politics of the Cornhusker State.
Before becoming a full-time cartoonist, Fell worked as a high school art teacher, coach, and college art professor. While teaching in Auburn, Nebraska, he began producing editorial cartoons for local newspapers, gradually establishing himself as one of the region’s most recognizable illustrators.
His growing reputation led to his appointment as editorial cartoonist and newsroom artist at the Lincoln Journal in 1984, where his work became a familiar feature for readers across the state. Beyond his political cartoons, Fell also created the popular Saturday Sketchbook, combining observational humor with detailed illustrations that celebrated everyday Nebraska life.
Championing Nebraska Through Art
Following the elimination of his newsroom position in 1992 amid newspaper cost-cutting, Fell reinvented his career as an independent cartoonist. Rather than leaving journalism, he launched Paul Fell Cartoons, a freelance studio that syndicated editorial cartoons to newspapers throughout Nebraska and nationally.
His work covered politics, education, agriculture, sports, and community life with a style that balanced satire with accessibility. While many readers knew him for his political commentary, generations of Nebraska sports fans also embraced his humorous illustrations celebrating the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
His cartoons became fixtures in newspapers, magazines, and publications throughout the Midwest, reflecting both national events and uniquely Nebraskan perspectives.
Colleagues Remember a Generous Artist
Following news of his death, fellow cartoonists remembered Fell not only for his artistic ability but also for his generosity toward younger illustrators entering the profession.
Writing on behalf of the family, longtime friend Shawn Peirce reflected on Fell’s characteristic humility:
“If he were reading this, Paul might chuckle and humbly accept the praise—and then he’d likely say something like, ‘Don’t make a big deal of it. Everybody dies. This has been a fun life.’ Or as Paul put it in his final email to me, ‘It’s been a fun ride.'”
Award-winning cartoonist Wiley Miller also paid tribute, describing Fell as:
“The epitome of a good, honest man… To say he’ll be missed is monumental understatement.”
Other colleagues recalled his willingness to mentor aspiring artists, share professional advice, and promote editorial cartooning at a time when the profession was undergoing significant change.
An Enduring Voice in Nebraska Journalism
Throughout his career, Fell remained deeply committed to editorial independence and local journalism. Even after leaving the newsroom, he continued producing cartoons for newspapers across Nebraska, ensuring that communities both large and small retained access to locally informed editorial commentary.
His illustrations chronicled changing political landscapes, celebrated Nebraska traditions, and documented everyday life with wit and humanity. In doing so, Fell became part of the visual history of Nebraska journalism.
His work also extended beyond newspapers through books, speaking engagements, caricatures, and collaborations with Nebraska author Roger Welsch, further cementing his reputation as one of the state’s best-known humorists and illustrators.
Funeral and Memorial Information
According to information shared by family representatives, Fell requested that no large public memorial be held immediately following his passing. His wife, Arlene, and family have asked for privacy during this time. Any future public remembrance or memorial announcements are expected to be communicated by the family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Paul Fell?
Paul Fell was a Nebraska editorial cartoonist, illustrator, and humorist whose work appeared in newspapers across the state for more than 50 years. He served as editorial cartoonist for the Lincoln Journal from 1984 to 1992 before establishing a successful freelance cartooning business.
How old was Paul Fell?
Paul Henry Fell Jr. was 80 years old. He was born in 1946 and died in June 2026.
What was Paul Fell known for?
He was widely recognized for his editorial cartoons covering politics, Nebraska public life, and college sports, particularly the Nebraska Cornhuskers. He also created humorous illustrations, caricatures, and several published books.
Has the family announced funeral arrangements?
No. Family representatives have indicated that Fell requested no large public memorial at this time.
Editorial Standards
This obituary has been prepared using publicly available reporting, biographical information published by Paul Fell during his lifetime, and verified statements released by family representatives and professional colleagues. Information has been included only where independently supported by reliable sources. The article will be updated if the family releases additional verified memorial information.