Justice Michael Ryan

The State Bar of Arizona issued the following statement this morning in regard to the death of retired Arizona Justice Michael Ryan, who passed away on Monday from an apparent heart attack. He was 66 years old.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 31, 2012

Contact: Rick DeBruhl, Chief Communications Officer

Phone: (602) 340-7335, Mobile: (602) 513-6385

E-Mail: rick.debruhl@staff.azbar.org 

State Bar Mourns the Passing of Arizona Supreme Court Justice Ryan (Ret.)

PHOENIX – Jan. 31, 2012 – The Board of Governors, along with the staff of the State Bar of Arizona, mourn the passing of retired Arizona Supreme Court Justice Michael D. Ryan.

According to Board President, Joe Kanefield, “Justice Ryan was a legal giant whose kind demeanor made all who appeared before him feel at ease.  He presided over some of the most important cases in our State’s history and set an example of courage and perseverance.  His wit and sense of humor are legendary.  He has earned his place in Arizona history and as one of our finest jurists.  He will be dearly missed by the legal community.”

Bar CEO John Phelps added, “The work and accomplishments of our true heroes are often lost in the noise and commotion of a world that too often honors celebrity, rather than service.  Mike Ryan, pure and simple, was a true hero in every sense of the word.”

Justice Ryan was an active member of the Bar, serving on the Disabilities Task Force. While serving on the Supreme Court, he helped to create the current lawyer regulation system.

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