Dennis E. Kinnaird

KINNAIRD, DENNIS E. Aug. 27, 1936 to Oct. 24, 2011 Dennis E. Kinnaird, one of California's leading trial lawyers, died at home in Los Angeles on Monday from complications of esophageal cancer. He was 75. He grew up in San Diego, California. After serving in the Army in the Korean War, he graduated from San Diego State University in 1961, and received a J.D. from University of California, Boalt Hall, Order of the Coif in 1964. Dennis spent a brief period with the law firm of Keating & Sterling before joining the U.S. Attorneys' Office where he became Head of Special Prosecutions. Dennis was regarded as an honest and effective federal prosecutor, one of the first to prosecute economic crimes in Los Angeles. After his service with the Department of Justice, Dennis distinguished himself at Munger, Tolles & Olson, as a partner who litigated high profile complex cases. He retired in 2001. Dennis was a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, a member of the Chancery Club, the California Club and the Wilshire Country Club. For over 50 years, Dennis was a dear colleague, friend and mentor. His friends described him as fiercely loyal, wise, a gentleman, a true friend, and above all valued his quick wit that would fill your heart with laughter. His nieces Stephanie and Shelby credit Dennis with giving them support, stability and guidance, balanced with love. Above all his legal acknowledgments Dennis valued the love of his life Connie McCreight. Connie and Dennis were truly meant for each other. During the last two years of a very difficult struggle with cancer, Connie was Dennis' reason for continuing on. He is also survived by his sister Susan Gribble, brother Donald Kinnaird, nieces Stephanie Levy, Shelby Scott and Keli Emery; and nephew Tod Emery. A wake will be held on November 19, 2011, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Wilshire Country Club. Contributions can be made to the Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048 or http://www.discoveringforlife.org/Kinnaird