Oskar Pahwul of Sag Harbor died peacefully on October 22. He was 84.
Born in Germany, Pahwul came to the United States as a teenager and soon discovered his lifelong calling in art. He attended the High School of Music and Art in Manhattan, earned his Bachelor of Arts from the School of Visual Arts, and his master’s degree from Pratt Institute, later pursuing doctoral studies at Columbia University.
A painter of extraordinary vision, he was best known for his abstract figurative paintings — after moving to Sag Harbor full time in 1980, he expanded to large-scale canvas landscape works. His canvases often reflected the shifting light, color, and serenity of the East End landscapes he was so passionate about. Alongside his fine art, Pahwul also ran a sign-making business — hand-carving wood and crafting neon designs that still shine throughout Sag Harbor and the Hamptons, enduring tributes to his craftsmanship and generosity of spirit.
His life was filled with vitality and adventure. He worked as a lifeguard at City Island and Jones Beach, was a competitive long distance bicycle racer with the GBC and participated in Olympic trials. He was a skilled speed skater and captain of the guards at Wollman Rink in Central Park, as well as an expert skier who confidently carved black diamond trails alongside the ski patrol. He found peace and joy on the water, sailing the local harbors and bays with the same grace and freedom that characterized his art.
His compassion for animals extended to all living things. He rescued, adopted and cared for many dogs over the years, each a beloved companion and muse. He found deep inspiration in the natural world — its creatures, its rhythms, and its quiet wisdom — which shone through in both his life and his work.
After a health setback, Pahwul embraced a quieter life, appreciating nature from home and the beauty of sunsets over Long Beach. Though his pace slowed, his wonder never faded — he delighted in the simple joys of daily life, where the sea and sun he loved were never far from view.
Those who knew Pahwul will remember his gregarious spirit and magnetic presence. He was the life of every gathering — quick to laugh, ready to dance, and always eager to celebrate the beauty of being alive.
He is survived by his wife, JoAnne; his son, Bret; daughter-in-law, Erin Keneally; his granddaughter, Vendela; his nephew, Ainars Pahwul and his wife Lisa; and many nieces and nephews.
“His creativity, warmth, and exuberance will be forever remembered by those fortunate enough to know him. Through his art — and the light, color, and love he brought into the world — Oskar’s spirit will continue to sail on,” his family said.
Staff Writer on Oct 30, 2025