Wesley Fastiff

Wesley J. Fastiff

July 19, 1932—July 7, 2017

Wesley J. Fastiff was born on July 19, 1932 in Fall River, Massachusetts to Ida and Jack Fastiff, both East European immigrants. Wes graduated from Durfee High School, Tufts University, and, after serving two years as a navigator in the U. S. Navy, Harvard Law School.

Wes's first job as an attorney was in Washington, D.C. with the National Labor Relations Board, where he clerked for the Board's chairman. The following year Wes transferred to the NLRB's San Francisco office. Shortly after, he joined a two lawyer firm that Wes led to become the largest law firm in the world representing management in labor and employment matters. The firm, once known as Littler Mendelson Fastiff Tichy & Mathiason, is now called Littler Mendelson PC, and has 1300 lawyers representing clients in 75 offices in 16 countries. Wes continued to practice law with the firm until a few days before his death.

Wesley is survived by Bonnie, his wife of 53 years, their children Pamela Ellman (Jonathan) and Eric Fastiff (Rebecca), and four grandchildren (Julia and Janna Ellman and Eli and Tessa Fastiff). No services will be held, and in lieu of flowers, the family requests any contributions be made to Touro Synagogue, Fastiff Family Fund, 85 Touro Street. Newport, R.I., 02840, or to the charity of your choice.