Wayne Fuerst

Wayne A. Fuerst, of Westport, passed away on November 4, 2026, at the age of 65. He was born on January 13, 1961, in New London, Wisconsin, to the late Glenn and Janis (Knuth) Fuerst, and grew up in New London.

Wayne attended the University of Maine before continuing his education at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. He devoted his life to pottery and was an exceptionally talented artist. Throughout his career, he shared his knowledge and passion for ceramics by teaching many students at places including Harvard Ceramics, Mudflat Pottery School, and Needham Pottery Shop. He also owned and operated his own pottery shop and gallery, Destination Dirt, where his creativity and artistic vision were on full display.

Wayne will be remembered for his remarkable artistic talent and the many students and people whose lives he touched through his work. His dogs, Orion and Freki, held a special place in his heart, as did the many dogs who came before them.

He is survived by his partner, Charles McConnell of Westport; his brother, Tregg Fuerst of Wisconsin; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Glenn and Janis Fuerst; his sister, Pam Van Asten; and his brother, Scott Fuerst.

Wayne leaves behind a lasting legacy through his art, his teaching, and the many lives he touched.