Dayton Docket
Law School In Memoriam 2021
As we reflect on this year, we want to remember those we lost from the law school family in 2021. If you know of any other law alumni who passed away this year but are not on the list, please email Jordan Burgess at jburgess1@udayton.edu.
James Barna '78
James Daniel Barna, Ph.D., J.D., age 81 of Huber Heights, Ohio, passed away Friday, December 17, 2021 at Kettering Medical Center. He was born February 5, 1940 in Ionia, Michigan to the late John and Helen Barna.
Jim was a loving father and grandfather. In 1969, he graduated from St. Louis University with a degree in Clinical Psychology and in 1978 from the University of Dayton School of Law. Jim was proud of his career as a Forensic Clinical Psychologist and enjoyed working throughout his entire life. He was a long time faculty member at Wright State University, recently teaching Psychology and Law classes. Jim strived for excellence in all he did, and was always looking to improve upon things by thinking around restrictions. He was a voracious reader and collector of ideas and inspirations.
Janice Beers '79
Janice died November 1, 2021, at Xenia, Ohio, after a long illness. She was 89 years old.
She was a graduate of Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts and the University of Dayton School of Law in Ohio. She was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. After being licensed in Ohio, she practiced law in Brookville OH, with a focus in constitutional law and law on the education of handicapped children. She was a member of the Miami Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship and the American Civil Liberties Union. She supported numerous charitable causes dedicated to the betterment of the environment and welfare of people around the world. Her parents, James Wallace and Mabel Anderson Pastorius, predeceased her.
This is her final message: "I want my children and grandchildren to remember me as someone who was actively engaged in the world. I hope that the world is a little better because I actively participated."
Obituary from Legacy.com (Dayton Daily News)
Richard Berry '77
Richard Conlon Berry died peacefully of natural causes at his home in Dayton.
Known as Dick to his friends and colleagues, and by his family as "Rim", he was born in Columbus on June 22, 1950 to the late Richard and Mary Jane Berry. He graduated from Bishop Watterson High School, Miami University of Ohio, and the University of Dayton School of Law, after which he worked as an attorney for many years. He was a devoted son, a devout Catholic, and patriotic American. He was an avid reader, a writer, and world traveller. His other passions included volunteering, golf, history, our National Parks, and Formula One racing.
Obituary from Egan-Ryan Funeral Home
Raymond Bilott '83
Lt. Col. Raymond L. Bilott (USAF Ret.), 86, formerly of Dayton, Ohio, passed away on May 2, 2021.
Ray was born on March 21, 1935, in Newark, New Jersey, to Emil Bilotta and Jessie (Raskin) Bilott. Ray received an engineering degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, a master's degree from New Jersey Institute of technology, and a law degree from the University of Dayton. Ray served as an officer in the US Air Force for over 20 years, including service as a navigator during the Vietnam War, and received many commendations and medals, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Legion of Merit, before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. After retirement, Ray obtained his law degree and pursued a second career for another two decades as a Prosecutor for the City of Dayton, Ohio. Ray was an avid sports enthusiast, particularly enjoying the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals, but his biggest joy was his family, especially spending time with them at family dinners, special events, and vacations.
Obituary from Legacy.com (Dayton Daily News)
Jeffrey Bowling '98
On Friday morning August 27, 2021, Jeffrey Bowling (53) passed away after sustaining multiple injuries from an accident on August 4, when he was struck by a car while on his motorcycle. Jeff put up the fight of his life, surpassing all medical expectations, but in the end, there was too much to heal and not enough time. But with the time he did have on this earth... he sure did live it to the fullest.
Jeff was born April 11, 1968, to Wayne and Diann (Dudley) Bowling in Hamilton, Ohio, and was the younger brother to Scott Bowling. Jeff loved playing sports, hanging out with friends...friends that would later become family. He always loved to have a good time, joke around and music soon became a big part of his life. Not only was Jeff an amazing drummer, he had a love for writing music. He loved the whole production of music and how it came together. The man had soul. Jeff earned his high school diploma from Hamilton High School in 1986, after enlisting in the United States Army his senior year. After serving in the 515th Transportation Unit in Stuttgart, Germany, Jeff earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio. In 1988 on Thanksgiving Eve at the Chatterbox, Jeff met the love of his life, his soulmate, Beth. The two were inseparable. They worked hard and played hard with their daughter Alex right by their side every step of the way. The two were married in August of 1992, and just celebrated 29 years of marriage. Jeff, Beth and Alex had so many adventures together alongside their friends and family. With all the fun times that were had, Jeff worked ten times harder to make sure his family had everything they wanted and way more. In 1998, Jeff then earned his Juris Doctorate in Legal Letters (law degree) from the University of Dayton School of Law. While at UD, he served as an Associate Editor of the University of Dayton Law Review and Earned the CALI Excellence for the Future Award for his legal research and writing skills. Jeff was accepted to the Ohio Bar on November 9, 1998, to the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio on January 26, 1999, and to the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan on March 14, 2006. He returned to Hamilton, Ohio, to serve his community. While his professional life was flourishing, his role in the community began to take off as well. Jeff was "Mr. Hamilton" and so proud of where he came from. The growth in Hamilton excited him so much and he loved being a part of every step of Hamilton's rebirth. Jeff sat on The Board of Directors for the Rivers Edge Concert Series. He loved to get on that microphone and welcome new bands, sharing his excitement with all of Hamilton. He couldn't contain his excitement and love for his city... you could catch that contagious smile and laughter a mile away. But it wasn't just Hamilton that had a piece of his heart... there was another part in Columbus with the Buckeyes. Jeff loved his Buckeyes and Ohio State Football, it was the greatest time of year. With all the accolades he accomplished, his biggest success was his family. Jeff was the strongest, most loving, loyal, intelligent and amazing man for his family. The best friend, son, brother, grandson, cousin, husband, father and especially Poppa. He was so proud of his grandkids and loved every single moment he had with his family... he never took a minute for granted. He went to all events, dance recitals, baseball games, soccer games, school functions...Poppa was always the biggest fan, beaming with pride with Beth right by his side. If they weren't with Alex, Brady and the grandkids, Beth and Jeff could be found on their motorcycle where they had some of their best times. With the wind in their hair, they loved to go for long rides. If there was ever an issue, everyone knew to go to Jeff... he may not have the answer but he would help guide you with his moral compass. He was a Christian with a strong faith. He was always learning and loved to read, especially about history and would talk politics with you all day while at the same time respecting that everyone has their own opinion...even if they were different from his. He was respected the most because he showed the most respect to anyone he met.
Obituary from Brown-Dawson-Flick Funeral Home
Carol Carlson '77
Carol Carlson, 94, passed on Thursday, November 18, 2021. She was the wife of the late Lee A. Carlson.
Born in White Plains, NY, she was the daughter of the late Alfred J. Ekblom and Olive Pearsall Ekblom. Carol grew up in Amsterdam, NY, and lived most of her adult life in Dayton, Ohio, before moving in her 90's to be closer to family. Carol was in the Class of 1948 at Skidmore College, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics. At age 50, she realized her lifelong ambition of becoming a lawyer, receiving her J.D. from the University of Dayton, and working as an attorney at National City/PNC Bank until her retirement. Carol will be fondly remembered as the life of the party and an enthusiastic supporter of her community. She was always generous with her time and resources as a board member of the Dayton YWCA, a docent at the Dayton Art Institute, a member of the Dayton Knitting Guild as well as various women's golf associations. Carol could often be seen around town in one of her yellow or red convertibles. She loved a good beer at the end of the day and chocolate anytime. Always an avid golfer, Carol played several days a week until her 90th birthday. Thanks to all her many friends who enriched her life.
Obituary from Legacy.com (Oxford Press)
Bonnie Drummond '90
Bonnie R. Drummond, 78, of Springfield, formerly of Columbus, passed away on Sunday, September 26, 2021, in her home.
She was born in Xenia, Ohio, the daughter of the late Beryl and Ruth (Pyles) Drummond. Bonnie was preceded in death by her husband Attorney Robin R. Freeman in 2014. She graduated from Wright State University and the University of Dayton Law School. Bonnie worked with her husband in his law firm and was proud of her volunteer work with the German Village Society of Columbus for more than 20 years.
Obituary from Littleton and Rue Funeral Home
Nancy Green '10
Nancy L. Green, 41, of Fishers, passed away February 14, 2021.
She was born May 18, 1979 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to William and Kay L. Green. Nancy was a 1997 graduate of Lawrence North High School. She received her Bachelor's Degree from Purdue University, and her law degree from University of Dayton. Nancy began her law career with Bruce Clark & Associates, Merriville, then with Keller & Keller, Camden & Meridew, and finally with Disability Division of the Social Security Administration. Nancy was involved with Kid's Choice of Indiana, a children's advocate program. Nancy loved her many cats, traveling, quilting, golfing, and wine.
Obituary from Shirley Brothers Mortuaries & Crematory
Benjamin Hiser '77 '80
Benjamin E. Hiser, 91, of Piqua, passed away at 9:45 a.m. Thursday, September 23, 2021 at the Piqua Manor Nursing Home.
He was born May 26, 1930 in Piqua to the late Otis Brice and Harriett (Burch) Hiser. He married Jane L. Oda July 16, 1976 in Piqua; she preceded him in death September 20, 2021. He earned his Bachelors and Law degrees from the University of Dayton in 1977 and 1980, respectively. He worked for many years as an Attorney for the Miami County Courts before his retirement. He served as a Sergeant in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was a member of the American Legion Post 184, the Korean War Veterans, VFW 4874, and the Ohio Bar Association. Additionally, he was active for many years with the Warren Lodge #24 of the Free & Accepted Masons, and the Scottish Rite Valley of Dayton.
Obituary from Jamieson & Yannucci Funeral Home
Michael Krall '81
Michael, age 66, of Tipp City, passed away on Sunday August 22, 2021, at Grandview Hospital in Dayton.
He was born on September 18, 1954 in Euclid, OH, to the late Edward and Alice (Srbel) Krall. Michael obtained his J.D. from University of Dayton School of Law. He was most proud of his education and ability to travel the world as an attorney. He was constantly learning and immersed himself in literature. Michael retired from the State of Ohio as a staff attorney for the Bureau of Workers Compensation.
Obituary from Baird Funeral Home
Dennis Lamm '83
After a courageous battle with cancer, Dennis J. Lamm of Mason, Ohio passed away on Sunday, April 18th, 2021 in his home, surrounded by those he loved.
Dennis was an attorney in Mason, Ohio, a graduate of the University of Dayton Law School. He was an OHSAA Umpire and enjoyed spending time with those that shared his love and respect of the game of baseball. He was also an avid bowler with a 300 game and an 800 series award. Dennis was a spiritual man who loved life. His laughter could be heard during all of his many activities around the area including the courthouse halls where he represented his clients.
Obituary from Advantage Cremation Care of Greater Cincinnati
Katherine Kuntz '06
Katherine Ewing "Katie" Kuntz, Age 40, of Kettering, passed away on Wednesday, January 27th, 2021, after a three year battle with brain cancer.
Katie was born on February 19th, 1980, to Carol and George Kuntz. She attended Alter High School followed by the University of Dayton for her undergraduate and earned her J.D. from the Univ. of Dayton School of Law. Katie was a valued employee of Lexis Nexis where she won many awards and trips. During her 40 years of life, she touched the lives of everyone who knew her. Katie fought for those who didn't have a voice; she started fostering pit bulls and any other dog that needed a forever home. This gave Katie so much joy and was one of her greatest passions. Her goal had always been to fight to make way for change. She educated others to not sweat the small stuff, and always stand for what you believe in. She was an idol to her youngest sister, Megan, and a best friend to her sister, Molly. She was an absolute treasure to her parents, who were always her biggest cheerleaders and supporters during the good and difficult times. Katie loved Bethany Beach, DE, yoga, music, shopping, Balenciaga purses, shoes, horses, travel, Swedish fish candy and black licorice and books. She supported the arts, always made time for her nieces and nephew, and always had a love for fashion. Katie enjoyed a glass of red wine every night, and loved dining at the Oakwood Club, her favorite restaurant, with family or friends. As a light to our world that burned so brightly for 40 years, her spirit will continue to light this earth that has lost her.
Obituary from Legacy.com (Dayton Daily News)
Michael Norris '17
Michael Norris (54), longstanding resident of Cheektowaga and recently Belmont, NY passed away on April 1, 2021 after an extended illness.
He was born in Niagara Falls, NY on September 9, 1966 and graduated from LaSalle Senior High School. Life is a series of moments. Most are fleeting, with a mere few rising to the level of notable permanency. Mike had many such moments. The paths he chose for work provided a broad range of experiences. His jovial and memorable personal interactions enriched the lives of his family and friends and all who came in contact with him. Highly intelligent, Mike used his many talents to serve his country. Mike served as a Russian Linguist in the Air Force, had a Top Secret security clearance, and flew multiple missions. While stationed overseas, he traveled widely in Europe and was a member of a British rugby club. Following his honorable discharge, Mike returned home to the USA. He later accepted his B.S. Degree in Industrial Technology from Southern Illinois University, which he worked on while serving overseas. He secured a position as a bid proposal writer to respond to Request for Proposals (RFPs) for large-scale, multi-million dollar, long-term government contracts. He subsequently decided to open his own proposal writing consulting company, Norris and Associates, Inc. His client list included Raytheon Technologies, Lockheed Martin Corporation, and the Wackenhut Corporation, among others. A lifelong learner, he obtained a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt during this time (for business, not karate!). Seeking yet another new challenge later in life, Mike decided to obtain a law degree. It enabled him to realize a lifelong dream and potentially expand his company's services. He worked diligently to attain that lofty goal and was rewarded with a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Dayton School of Law in 2017. On the personal side, Mike was well known for his humor and quick wit. Mike had a talent for instantaneously interjecting a perfect phrase to elevate a seemingly inconsequential random moment to legendary status. Such phrases will pepper conversations amongst his family for years to come. Mike was a lifelong fan of the Buffalo Bills and Sabres. Just sayin' - for the Sabres playoffs in 2006, he camped out for tickets and famously earned the moniker "First in Line Guy" - and provided entertaining media interviews that his family recalls to this day. He scored tickets on the glass and flew his sister, brother, and nephew up for the game. Mike also loved the outdoors. Fishing and boating were favorite activities in Florida, the Buffalo-Niagara region, and Canada. He was also an avid skier and golfer. He skied in the Southern Tier of New York as well as the Pacific Northwest. He climbed Mt. Adams in Washington State and rafted the lower Deschutes River in Oregon. Mike was also a natural entertainer. Wherever he was, he would own the room. He was gregarious with impeccable comedic timing and a booming baritone voice. In addition to smaller family and friend gatherings, he could speak in front of a crowd and have everyone laughing. One of his greatest joys was embracing the role of Uncle Mike. He strove to ensure that his nieces and nephews knew they were the most important people in his life when they were together. Whatever particular situation they found themselves in at a given moment, he went the extra mile to ensure they had a memorable time. Life is all about moments, and Mike always rose to the occasion and set the bar.
Obituary from Lane Funeral Home
Joseph Robinette '87
Joseph Robinette, 59, of Cincinnati passed away Tuesday, August 31, 2021.
Joseph was a graduate of Chaminade Julienne, University of Dayton Law School and employed with Wood and Lamping LLP. He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Bernadine.
Obituary from Legacy.com (Dayton Daily News)
Robert Spohn '92
Robert Dale Spohn, 56, of Clinton Township, passed away peacefully Tuesday, March 2, 2021, with his family by his side. He was born Aug. 30, 1964, in Harrison Township. Robert was the son of Carl R. and Barbara A. (Eurich) Spohn, of Fawn Township. He lived the past 16 years in Clinton Township, and prior to that, Fawn Township. Robert was an attorney for 29 years in Saxonburg. He was a member of Center United Methodist Church, the American Bar Association and Penn State Alumni Association. Robert graduated from Highlands High School, Class of 1982, Penn State University and earned his law degree from the University of Dayton Law School. Robert enjoyed fishing, hunting, the Outer Banks and RV camping. Robert was also a fan of Penn State and Steelers football.
Obituary from Duster Funeral Home
Sister Mary Louise Foley (first School of Law Campus Minister)
Sister Mary Louise Foley, FMI, 84, passed away on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, at Siena Woods.
Sister Mary Louise was born in Dayton on February 7, 1937, the middle child of Edward and Regina (nee Kelly) Foley. A graduate of Julienne Catholic High School and the University of Dayton, Mary Louise entered the Marianist Sisters in 1959 and served many years as a pastoral minister in Dayton and in San Antonio, Texas.