Peter Helms Feresten, 62, a loving husband, photographer and teacher, passed away Sunday, Sept. 16, 2007, at home after a long illness.
Funeral: 1:30 p.m. Saturday in Mount Olivet Chapel. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Mount Olivet Funeral Home.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Tarrant County Scholarship Fund, in care of Joe McIntosh, 817-515-5377.
Peter was born June 15, 1945, in Fall River, Mass., to Wanda and Morris Feresten. He was trained in the social sciences and studied comparative religion at Columbia University, as well as fine art at the Rhode Island School of Design. Arriving in Fort Worth in 1975, he dedicated himself to public education and developed a program for the serious study of photography at Tarrant County College.
He brought his unique vision and the art of his photography to so many in the Fort Worth area. In addition to the people he touched through teaching, Peter left a significant body of photographs of the Stockyards of the 1970s, as well as the churches and blues clubs of Fort Worth's African American community. During the last decade of his life, he photographed often at the 2500 Club, a biker bar. Some may know him as "Picture Pete," the name given him by his biker buddies.
Survivors: Wife, Gayle; daughters, Yvonne, Nuria, Candice, Jill and Cassandra; grandson, Vincent; godchildren, James and Alicia; and brothers, Michael, Paul and Timothy.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Star-Telegram from Sep. 20 to Sep. 21, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Peter Feresten

Sponsored by Peter's wife, Gayle Feresten and daughter, Cassandra Bartol.

48 Entries

Aaron R Hutchinson

September 3, 2022

Peter and the Queen
Cyanotype Print from Mixed Media - 2022
Artwork from a former Student

Robert Rozell

September 14, 2020

Peter inspired me, in ways I did not understand until later. I learned so much about printing especially. I still hear him at times saying "It needs more contrast" when I am editing images"

Jack Denny-Brown

May 4, 2018

I knew Peter from a long ways back, in college at Columbia, during the years 1964-1966. It was through Peter that I was
introduced to the counter-culture fraternity house on 113th st, Phi Kappa Psi. Peter was a wonderer and a wanderer, even then. Reading the notes of his photography students and colleagues is inspiring and a pleasure to someone who knew him at such a vulnerable and formative stage of life. It was during those two years that we were introduced to a new counterculture involving rock and roll, and yes...free love. That was a concept which has been so absorbed into the culture that most people probably dont even know what it is! Peter was fond of debate and he was a good spirit. It was Peter who introduced me to IF Stone, and the IF Stone Weekly, a newsletter which presented radical ideas on American politics and society. It was Peter who suggested that the war in Vietnam, winding up as it was in 1965, might not be the just war we all assumed it was at the time. It was Peter who introduced me to Students for a Democratic Society, the nascent student political organization which was to become so influential in the years which followed. These were the early years of the political turmoil that was to come. I lost contact with Peter after 1966, so I dont know where these ideas went with him, but for sure Peter was someone who followed his own drummer. At the fraternity, our parties were humble affairs compared to the bashes held at other fraternities at that time. I remember when Peter hired a band for one of our parties. He had discovered them on the street and arranged for them to come around on a Saturday night. When other fraternities had Beatles cover bands, we had Carlos and his Royal Kings, a mariachi band that Peter had encountered on the street one day. Peter was a wonderful guy. I was sad to hear of his passing, but pleased to read the comments of his many students and colleagues reflecting a life well spent.

Following find a list of some of those who shared that time with Peter:
Myself (Jack Denny-Brown), Ross Drucker, John Starr, John Fuerst, Bob
Osborne, Carolyn Jesse, Eric Brown, John Heustis, Jerry Robbins, Tom
Rudolph, Randy Sealey, John Bryson, Jack Rubin, Doug Manfredi, Dave
Gottlieb, Peter Tovey, Annie Hurwitz, Eugene Schwartzburg, Jimmy Gilmartin, and Fast Al (from out of Town). . .did I leave some out? RIP Peter F.

Jack Denny-Brown
Columbia College 1968

ken moore

December 17, 2017

I WAS IN YOUR FIRST PHOTO CLASS AT TCJC. WILL LOOK FOR YOU IN HEAVEN!

Sarab Dara

December 2, 2013

Taught me everything I know about photography. Beautiful man.

Frederick (Rick) Parkhurst

July 12, 2012

I was Peter's roommate for our first year at RISD. I always enjoyed Peter immensely. I knew he lived in Texas as I do, I thought of contacting him but it is too late now. When he was at RISD he hung out and photographed: lots of old bars in Providence and Fall River, lots of transvestites and prostitutes etc. He had a lot of fun and was a great photographer. Fall River Ma. is a very unique place and was a good place for the likes of Peter.

Peter & Amigo in his darkroom

August 4, 2009

Peter and Amigo

August 4, 2009

Peter's self portrait titled: Sarasota 1972

January 28, 2009

"Picture Pete", Local Photographer

January 28, 2009

Mount Olivet - Fort Worth, Texas

January 28, 2009

Camping with the Kossacks Motorcycle Club

January 28, 2009

Wedding photos made by his long-time friend, photographer Mark Penland

January 28, 2009

December 15, 2002 - Wedding at the after The Big Texas Toy Run Party at the 2500 Club on Belknap

January 28, 2009

Peter and his darkroom assistant, Amigo.

Gayle Feresten

January 28, 2009

His pet name for me was 'doll', always said in that 40s-sultry, film noir sort of way. He described me as 'Sweet. The most feminine of my loves.' He died in September 2007.

A few days before his death, he asked me to sit down on the bed with him and he reminded me of something we'd learned and discussed many times over the past three years together as we each faced the most difficult times in our lives.

"I've lived a good life. I've lived a very interesting life. I have no regrets. I don't owe anyone anything, not even an apology. I thought I'd be afraid at this stage, but I'm not … and while I wasn't ready to leave this earth, there were still things I wanted to do, my karma is good and my conscience is clear. I've nothing to fear ... and to tell you the truth, I'm a little bit curious about what comes next."

Elaine McDonald

September 4, 2008

Peter's generous spirit, incredible breadth of knowledge and passion for his art and teaching combined to make him the finest teacher and one of the kindest and most interesting people I have ever known.
I knew that he had made a difference in my life but I was stunned to read how many other people were so deeply affected by his extraordinary gifts.
I attended TCJC in the mid to late 80's and then moved away, returning just once, several years ago for a short visit. While there I happened to walk in on a critique Peter was conducting of his students' work. He was shockingly thin and no longer wearing his signature black trousers and white shirt, but everything else was just the same as it had been 20 years earlier.
I sat there listening and holding back my tears as he uncovered something of merit and interest in each and every photograph. No matter how tired the subject matter or how uninspired the composition might be he was always able to find something genuinely worthy of his praise .
Peter not only taught his students to see but he also instilled in them a passion to reach inside for their very best. He made you feel good about yourself and perhaps that was his greatest gift of all. I know it was for me.
Thanks for everything Peter. I will never forget you.
My condolences and sympathy to your family.

Elaine McDonald

Kim Lee

November 15, 2007

I am sad to learn of Peter's death--I knew he'd been ill, but I held out hope he'd stay with us a little bit longer.
I was a student of Peter's back in the mid 80s--he was a great influence in my life and art. Although I hadn't seen him in many years, I called his house last winter (out of the blue), and spoke with him-- he remembered me, to my surprise-- and I had a chance to thank him for being such a good mentor to me during those TCC years. I know he'll be missed by everyone who had the privilege to know him. He was a fabulous artist, generous teacher, and a good friend as well. My prayers go out to his family. I'll think of him often.

Melissa Malone Ingram

November 14, 2007

I'm so thankful to have known Peter as a student, and so saddened to hear of his passing. He was a great inspiration to me, and the memory of his classes and instruction sparks the desire, once again, to continue the photographic journey I abandoned for more mundane things so many years ago.

Thank you, Peter.

JB & Susan Harlin

October 5, 2007

We have lost a treasure in our area. . . a true artist. . . I am proud to have known him. . . our deepest sympathy to his family. . .

Juan Trahan

October 2, 2007

Sad to hear the news of Peters passing! I was a student off and on for 20 years. Peter taught me photography and much more. Peter helped me observe my surroundings and see beauty in the simple objects and shapes that surround me.
I remember so many times I would bring a dripping wet print up to him in the lab and how he would always encourage me no matter how poor my work was.
His lectures were amazing. I came to believe in the end that his Photo I lecture was the best and most inspiring. I remember so many times being in his lectures that would sometimes run past the end of class and nobody would leave. My best memories are when I went to visit him in his funky Diamond Hill neighborhood. I remember hanging out and always hoping Peter would bring out some of his recent prints. I felt a special privilege knowing I was one of the first people to see one of his new prints.
Peter I thank you for making my life much richer.

Steve Carson

September 28, 2007

Peter was the type of instructor that allowed students to express themselves through their work. Peter never said a discouraging word about anyone's photos. He taught students by example as well. His work recorded the human condition in churches, bars, truck stops and street corners. What an amazing man! I'll miss you. Steve Carson

Ann Bridges

September 27, 2007

Peter lived and breathed photography. He inspired me when I was studying at TCJC NE in 1985-1986. Margie Papajohn and I were so obsessed with getting the color printing right that we would print until well after dark. One day Peter asked us why we didn't just bring a bed roll since we were there so long. Peter was the best photographer I ever met. I heard that the Amon Carter Museum bought some of Peter's prints. That is wonderful. I think we should demand a showing of Peter's work at the Amon Carter Museum. My deep sympathies go to his wife and family. They don't make them like Peter anymore.

Cindy Watkins

September 27, 2007

I was shocked today to hear of Peter's passing. Peter taught us so much about photography and life. Peter will always be with us through his art and live in our hearts forever. Blessings, Cindy

KIM PIERCE

September 26, 2007

TO GAYLE AND THE FAMILY: I'M LADY PEARL'S DAUGHTER KIM, AND I TRULY JUST FOUND OUT OF MR. FERESTENS' PASSING, I'M SO SORRY THAT I DIDN'T KNOW IN TIME, AS I WOULD'VE PAID MY RESPECTS IN PERSON. PLEASE KNOW THAT GOD IS WITH YOU IN YOUR TIME OF GRIEF AND BEREAVEMENT, MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND MY DEEPEST CONDOLESCENCES FOR THIS GREAT LOSS.
HE PHOTOGRAPHED MY MOTHER, WHO ADMIRED HIM FOR HIS TIME AND EFFORT IN DISPLAYING THE AFRICAN HERITAGE IN SUCH A BEAUTIFUL EXPRESSION OF APPRECIATION TO THE ARTS, AND MUSIC.
HE'LL BE MISSED AND OUR HEARTS GO OUT TO YOU WITH LOVE.

GOD BLESS YOU AND KNOW THAT THIS IS ONLY A TEMPORARY JOURNEY, AND WE'LL ALL MEET UP AGAIN FOR THE MOST HEARTFELT AND JOYOUS FAMILY REUNION, IN HEAVEN. JUST THINK, AN ETERNITY OF LOVE, HAPPINESS AND SPIRITUAL LIFE ABUNDANTLY..

LOVE
THE FAMILY OF
LADY PEARL JOHNSON
QUEEN OF BLUES

Paul Mayeux

September 25, 2007

Eight years have passed since my last class with Peter. I can still hear him telling me that my negative was "a little thin" or "a bit dense". He taught me not only the technical aspects of photography but the value of documenting the world, fueling my desire to record things and places on film.

As a teacher he is irreplaceable and as a photographer his talents have made him a place among the greatest photographers. I will miss Peter and I wish the best for his family.

Ann Flanagan

September 25, 2007

Very few times in our lifetime we get to experience a person who truly inspires and motivates us. Peter was one for me. After leaving one of his lecture/slide shows, I was so full of enthusiasm. While taking pictures now, I still ask myself, "what would Peter do?" He was a gift.

Lisa Simonds

September 25, 2007

Peter taught me a way of looking at things...I use that every day. It helps me find the beauty in a sometimes otherwise bleary world.
Man, you made such a difference in so many people's lives...what a gift you gave. Thank you seems inadequate, but, thank you.

Linda Broiles

September 24, 2007

Sitting here in New Jersey, living my whatever life, I am stopped...upon learning of Peter's death. I mourn the loss of Peter Feresten. My deepest sympathies to his family. He was so much to so many. Thank you, Peter.

Paull Robertson

September 23, 2007

Peter will always be remembered as great teacher ,committed to his students and photography.His phone number is still on my darkroom wall.
rest in peace

Elizabeth Mokry

September 22, 2007

I remember everything he taught me about Photography back in 1987, at TCJC NE. He had such a passion about art and everything around him. He truly was a great inspiration to us all. I aspire to be as great an art teacher as he was to me.

Lisa Rozell

September 22, 2007

I am deeply sorry for your loss, he will be missed greatly by everyone.

Jim and Margie Papajohn

September 22, 2007

Most of us knew very little about cameras or photography processes when we first began our photography studies with Peter in 1985. His photo images were/are fantastic! We learned many wonderful things in his classes, along with regular well known camera procedures, I especially loved his Pin-Hole photography classes, and the wonderful images we learned to make with plastic cameras (the Diana camera)

My husband, myself, and our other fellow students spent many happy hours together learning all about photography processes with Peter as our instructor.Sometimes we remained in the darkrooms so long that Peter would enter and begin teasing us by telling us to bring our sleeping-bags to class next time. It was his way of politely telling us that it was time to close up the labs, and for all of us to go home.

Peter was kind, patient, tireless, encouraging, and always ready to help us learn how to produce the best images possible. Chocolate he would say, absolutely Chocolate when we presented him our finished works for his critique.

Peter touched so many lives, he will be missed by many and will live in our hearts forever. Our prayers are with you at this time.

Christopher Jones

September 21, 2007

He was one of the most passionate teachers I have ever had and he certainly influenced and encouraged myself and hundreds of photographers. My first thought upon hearing of his passing was who would photograph his funeral, as Peter did many times. He encouraged experimentation and the traditional, which described him perfectly. He will be missed.

Bern Sullivan & Opal Lee

September 21, 2007

To Peter's Family,

It is with sincere gratitude that we acknowledge the great devotion of Peter to the Tarrant County Black Historical & Genealogical Society. He spent many hours photographing and documenting the Society's collection for preservation with the Fort Worth Public Library. He was such a pleasant person and we held many sessions with him as we gathered the materials like the extremely large fragile pictures and paintings from the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge to the wall coverings he personally installed that made the old Boone Place building on Humboldt Street into a beautiful Museum for the enjoyment of the community.

We sincerely appreciate his caring spirit and untiring dedication to preservation of the history of African Americans in Tarrant County. He was a truly generous and caring person and he will be missed.

May the memories of his beautiful life serve to offer you comfort, strength, and peace.

Ben Noey

September 21, 2007

Thanks for the many memories and many lessons learned. You will continue to be an inspiration.

Kay Bruce

September 21, 2007

I met Picture Pete at 2500 Club, I fell in Love with his dry sense of humor. We always ended up at the same functions, always with his camera taking wonderful pictures of all of our friends. I will miss you Pete. My condolences to the family.

Robert Rozell

September 21, 2007

Peter what can I say you taught me not only about photography ,but life also. I will never forget all the times we talked, you will be missed .

Michelle Webre-Rich

September 21, 2007

The community has indeed lost a great individual and artist. I know Peter will live on through the students who's lives he touched, myself included.

Debra Coleman

September 21, 2007

Peter will be missed by all that he touchec. I've never seen a man make my sister so happy and understand her with out question. Gayle I send my love
Debbie

Pattie Carter

September 21, 2007

My Love, my condolences for my sister. Peter you made her so happy. Your sister in law...

Sheri Robertson

September 20, 2007

Peter was an amazing photographer, teacher, and friend. I will never forget the day he gave me my first Diana camera.He will be missed.

Andy Reisberg

September 20, 2007

There are stars whose light reaches the earth only after they themselves have disintegrated. Are there are individuals whose memory lights the world after they have passed from it. These lights shine in the darkest night and illumine our path...
Thank you Peter for brightening our lives and illuminating our path.

Phillip Mosier

September 20, 2007

Thanks for the memories.

Karen Baker

September 20, 2007

I transferred from TCJC South Campus in 1976 so I could enroll in the Photography classes that were offered on NE Campus. I had the pleasure to take 2 of Peter's classes in 1976. He counseled me to help get me in a major that would be good for me. He will not be forgotten.
Sincerely,
Karen Baker

Rey Reyna

September 20, 2007

I study under Peter in early 80's at TCJC....what a lasting impresion ....The man was dedicated to his work and seem to enjoy what he was doing...I feel blessed to have known him

Matthew Redden

September 20, 2007

He was the essence of photography. He knew about ten ways to solve a problem, but one of them would work for you. He'll be missed by so many people, but no one can forget the legacy he left behind. God Speed.

Christopher Blay

September 19, 2007

Pete, I will miss you. The most common line in any rememberance of you will be " you taught me a lot". Thanks for your genuine interest in me and All your students. Thanks for your numerous letters of recommendation and your kindness. It was a blessing to know you. Good-bye.
Christopher

Chet Kwapisinski

September 19, 2007

Peter it was an honor to know you and I will always remember you. My deepest condolences to the family.

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