13 www.loubar.org May 2025 Michelle Chalmers, 63, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2025, after a brief battle with cancer. Michelle earned her Juris Doctorate from the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law and went on to practice independently as an attorney for more than 30 years, primarily within the family law sector representing clients. She also served as a Guardian Ad Litem, advocating for children. Beyond her professional life, Michelle became a Master Gar- dener, creating vibrant landscapes that reflected her care and dedication to everything she touched, including family and friends. She was an actress who performed in many theatrical performances. She enjoyed playing bridge which challenged her intellect, falling just short of Life Master recognition. She enjoyed dance, especially tango, and competed in Louisville’s Dancing with the Stars. She found deep enjoyment in read- ing, especially books that explored the complexities of the human mind. She swore by Yoga and Pilates and proudly boasted about her ability to perform head stands. Michelle cherished her grandchildren, and beyond spoiling them, as any grandpar- ent would, felt it was her responsibility to offer wisdom and guidance just as her own grandmother had offered her. n Marvin L. Coan, 77, died on March 16, 2025, with his beloved wife and two loving sons by his side, following late-stage complications from cancer. Marvin was a devoted husband, a loving father, a true friend and the quintessential professional and compassionate lawyer. In 1973, Marvin graduated from the University of Kentucky College of Law. After law school, he became a trial attorney in the Civil Division at the Department of Justice, where he represented the United States in District Courts nationwide, as well as before State and Federal Courts of Appeal. He received a Special Commendation award in 1976 for his work in the Civil Division, and for the coordination of criminal prosecutions throughout the country during the energy crisis. Marvin spent four years in Washington, D.C., where he met the love of his life, Patti Gordon, in the checkout line at the grocery store, buying ice cream. In 1978, Marvin co-founded a law firm with some of his best friends, and what is now Hummel Coan & Sage LLC. He practiced law in Kentucky for nearly half a century with trusted partners, associates and clerks, including none more so than his legal assistant of 39 years, Janice Hardy. In his personal life, Marvin loved spending time with friends and family, watching col- lege basketball and football with his sons, swimming with his grandson, going to the movies, taking long walks and being outside. He was an avid reader of history and current events and loved to joke and talk politics. He loved playing with dogs, feeding wildlife and respected life in all its forms. He was a lifelong member and supporter of the Jewish Community Center and supported many other local and national charities and organizations. n John Friend, a brilliant attorney known for his colorful per- sonality, unwavering advocacy and commitment to reshaping Kentucky law, died on March 21, 2025, following a brief but intense battle with Burkitt’s lymphoma. He was 41 years old. John’s legal prowess was evident in his landmark victories that reshaped Kentucky law. In University of Louisville v. Rothstein, John successfully argued that the passage of the Kentucky Model Procurement Code waived governmental immunity for all claims arising out of lawfully authorized written contracts with the Commonwealth and its agencies. Other notable cases handled by John included Boling v. Prospect Holdings, where he protected a severely injured plaintiff from a predatory lawsuit lender, and Norton Healthcare, Inc. v. Disselkamp, which clarified jury instruction standards in age discrimination cases, reaffirming important protections for employees. John joined Alex R. White, PLLC in 2022, quickly earning a reputation as the firm’s “answers man” for his strategic brilliance and legal insight. His incisive legal writing and command of complex issues made him a formidable presence in both trial and appellate courts. John was a giving individual, readily and selflessly offering his time to serve others, whether they be animals, old friends, new acquaintances or disadvantaged litigants who never knew of his considerable efforts. In John’s memory, friends and colleagues are asked to stand up for the voiceless, volunteer time to support others’ growth and challenge injustice at every turn – embodying the principles that defined his impactful, albeit too short, life and career. Contributions are also encouraged to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) in his honor. A Celebration of Life ceremony will take place in July. n In Memoriam William F. McMurry & Associates, PLLC Trust us to handle your clients’ Legal Malpractice Claims William F. McMurry Board Certified as a Legal Malpractice Specialist by the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys (ABPLA.ORG) The ABPLA is accredited by the ABA to certify specialist in the field of Legal Malpractice - SCR 3.130 (7.40) [email protected] (502) 326-9000 William F. McMurry will personally handle each case while some services may be provided by others. Association of Legal Administrators The monthly chapter meeting of the Ken- tucky Association of Legal Administrators will be held in person and via Zoom on Thursday, May 8, beginning at noon at the office of Frost Brown Todd in Louis- ville (400 W. Market St., Ste. 3200) and Lexington (250 W. Main St., Ste. 2800). Please RSVP by registering online at www.ky-ala.org. Any questions, please contact Deana Lively, [email protected]. n MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS LBA Committee Meetings Diversity & Inclusion Committee Wednesday, May 14 at 4 p.m., via Zoom Health & Wellness Committee Thursday, May 15 at noon, via Zoom To register for any of the above LBA com- mittee meetings, contact Lisa Anspach, [email protected]. n Julie C. Foster O’Bryan Brown & Toner Garry R. Adams Adams Landenwich Lay Michael J. Austin Phillips Parker Orberson & Arnett Jacob A. Beavin Phillips Parker Orberson & Arnett Tyler Belcher US Army Corps of Engineers Tess Leigha Hardesty Phillips Parker Orberson & Arnett Ashley R. Lile Sullivan University Allison G. Orberson-Wiles Phillips Parker Orberson & Arnett ATTORNEYS ATTORNEYS Hon. Sara Nicholson Jefferson District Court, Div. 10 JUDGE JUDGE Kylie Menish Brandeis School of Law Abby Voet Brandeis School of Law Alkema Woods Brandeis School of Law LAW STUDENTS LAW STUDENTS Carrie McNatt Zoeller Synergy BUSINESS ASSOCIATE BUSINESS ASSOCIATE MEMBER MEMBER The Louisville Bar Association would like to welcome our new and returning members.
