ALAN FERN

ALAN FERN obituary, Washington, DC

ALAN FERN

ALAN FERN Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Sep. 15 to Sep. 17, 2021.

ALAN M. FERN  
On September 13, 2021 Alan M. Fern of Chevy Chase, MD passed away. Dr. Alan Fern, served as Director of the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery from 1982-2000. A native of Detroit, MI Alan attained both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts from the University of Chicago, before studying at the Courtauld Institute in London, and then returning to Chicago to complete his doctorate. A scholar of American prints and photographs, he worked at the Library of Congress for twenty years before joining the Smithsonian; leading the National Portrait Gallery for 18 years from 1982 until his retirement in 2000. Alan made many important decisions that shaped the museum's mission, including doubling the permanent collection to over 18,000 works before he left. A consummate director deeply knowledgeable about art and history and a long-time member of the Association of Art Museum Directors, Alan was also a decorated Chevalier Ordre de la Couronne (Belgium), Ordre des Arts et Lettres (France), Commander Royal Order of Polar Star (Sweden) and Fulbright Scholar. He is survived by his wife Lois (Karbel) Fern. A Memorial Service will take place following the Covid-19 pandemic. Memorial contributions may be made in Dr. Fern's honor to the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, or the charity of your choice.    

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

Sign ALAN FERN's Guest Book

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January 18, 2022

Annette Blaugrund posted to the memorial.

September 19, 2021

Nancy Mannes posted to the memorial.

September 15, 2021

Judy Murphy planted trees.

4 Entries

Annette Blaugrund

January 18, 2022

Dear Lois,
Stanley and I were so sad to read about alan's passing. We hopr that you are doing well and send our fond regards.

Nancy Mannes

September 19, 2021

Alan was a pioneer leader in the early days of the Portrait Gallery. He really put it on the map! It was fun having the occasional lunch with him there ---- as well as traveling to China! I am glad to have known him! My deepest sympathy, Lois.

Grove of 100 Memorial Trees

Judy Murphy

Planted Trees

Judy and Dennis Murphy

September 15, 2021

Lois we were so sorry to hear about Alan. You both set a good example of a great long lasting marriage. Thank you for that. I will be in touch soon.
Love. Judy and Dennis

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Sign ALAN FERN's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 18, 2022

Annette Blaugrund posted to the memorial.

September 19, 2021

Nancy Mannes posted to the memorial.

September 15, 2021

Judy Murphy planted trees.