Carl Zahn, 83, Publication Director at Museum of Fine Arts

Carl F. Zahn, 83, died Feb. 27, 2012 in Sarasota, Fla. He was the longtime publication director for the Museum of Fine Arts and a gifted designer.

Zahn lived in Jamaica Plain for decades. Colleagues told the Boston Globe Zahn had a wide impact in the world of graphic design.

"When he started in Boston, he really was unique," said Lance Hidy, a graphic artist and book designer and close friend. "He played a role in the history of 20th century graphic design because of his brilliance and what he brought to the Boston design scene."

Zahn was also an accomplished singer and tennis player.

Zahn is buried in along with his late wife, Felicitas. According to his colleague Michael Babcock, a JP resident who runs , the headstone was lettered and carved by MacArthur genius grant recipient Nick Benson of the John Stevens Shop in Newport, RI.