HOWARD GANZ

GANZ--Howard. The Proskauer family is deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved friend and partner, Howard Ganz. "Howie," as we all called him, was unfailingly kind, decent, and altruistic. Whether one had been at the firm for a day or a decade, Howie would always lend a helping hand, a sympathetic ear, and sage advice. He never said no to anyone on any matter, large or small, professional or personal. He was friend, mentor and big brother to generations of Proskauer lawyers, staff and clients, and always prepared to sacrifice for the greater good of every community of which he was a member. No description of Howie would be complete without recognition of his extraordinary wit. For years, Howie was the master of ceremonies at every firm event, the consummate "toastmaster" and "roastmaster." Heaven help the person with the personality quirk that became the focus of Howie's amusing observations, which were always delivered with affability, a velvet glove and a twinkle in the eye...and followed by a warm bear hug. Along with his contemporaries and dear friends David Stern, Michael Cardozo, Bob Batterman and Betsy Plevan, Howie spearheaded the development of our nationally recognized Sports Law practice (now in its 58th year) under the tutelage of George Gallantz and helped advance the development and careers of dozens of young lawyers who today populate the law firms, teams, leagues, and networks that serve the sports industry. We all extend our deepest sympathies to his incomparable and devoted wife Nancy, his children David and Beth, step-daughters Katie and Amy, and their spouses and children. They will always remain an essential part of the Proskauer family.