On Christmas Eve, 2012, we lost one of the good guys. If you were lucky enough to know John Grund, you know exactly what I mean. John was a defense attorney based in Denver. And while he practiced primarily in the Rocky Mountain region, his impact extended far beyond. He was well-recognized as an excellent litigator – receiving numerous awards, ratings and accolades for his legal prowess – and he was sought after as an expert witness as well.
I had the privilege of knowing John through the International Amusement and Leisure Defense Association. Through IALDA, we worked together presenting seminars and speaking to various trade organizations. I had the opportunity to see first-hand his knowledge, tenacity and drive, and at the same time see his humility, friendliness and humor. Whether by email at 4:00 a.m., or through his annual insurance law treatise, the man exuded wit and wisdom.
I will remember him cruising down an Orlando street on his scooter, and I will remember the wonderful dinner he, his wife and I shared at Café Giovanni in the French Quarter. John respected the practice of law, tackled the challenges of life, and demonstrated the best qualities of a colleague and friend.