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Vincent Immel Obituary
Memories and Condolences
for Vincent Immel
August 26, 2010
I was privileged to have had Professor Immel for Contracts and have great memories of the 2 days he spent grilling me on a case. I am extremely grateful that I am among the St. Louis U. grads who can say that they had Professor Immel for Contracts.
Lawrence Slason
April 1, 2010
Only a few persons come along in one's lifetime who shape who you are and what you may become. Professor Immel was such a person. A gifted teacher, master of the Socratic and a wonderful man. His high expectations for all students and his classroom rigor helped prepare an entire generation of lawyers. I owe him much and am deeply grateful for the privilege of having been his student. God bless you Vince.
William Grandone
March 25, 2010
I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dean Immel. Reading the article in St.Louis Brief brought back so many memories of him. Too many to relate here. But I largely credit him, Joe Simeone, Professor Rohlik, and Dick Childress,with my success as a lawyer.
I told my daughters as they started college that if they had a choice between a professor who taught them facts and a professor who taught them how to think-choose the latter.
All of us came to SLU Law school as the "best and the brightest' of our respective colleges and universities. We had the knowledge and the ability but we lacked the mental toughness and discipline needed in our profession. Above all else, Vince Immel provided that in immeasurable quantities.
Every lawyer that graduated from SLU during his tenure there owes him a deep sense of gratitude.
Dean I hope wherever you are that the cards are hot, the Scotch is good, and no one uses the words "verbally" "irregardless' or "You know", especially the latter because now it drives ME NUTS when my kids use it.
January 5, 2010
My Christmas card to you was returned marked DECEASED. I couldn't hold back the tears because you passed away and I didn't know that. I will miss your birthday and Christmas cards. I'll think of you every Ides of March. Your students were so fortunate to know you and to learn from you. You were the finest example of a law school professor. May God bless you and hold you forever in his love. Julie Hake (Ret. Executive Asst., SLU Law)
Clayton Friedman (class of 84)
December 30, 2009
Reflecting back on my legal career, it all started with my first contracts class with Professor Immel. That was in 1981! Like everyone else, I too was intimidated for most of that entire first year. Of course, once I made it through his class, I knew I could "do the law school thing". In fact, his remedies class was a "piece of cake". Professor, I don’t know if you will have access to this up there, but I wanted to thank you again for all that you taught me, both during law school and later during my career. You made the law work for me. You will surely be missed. Especially by Mrs. Gotrocks from Ladue and Esmeralda the Cow. Rest peacefully Professor.
Carole Munson
December 24, 2009
Christmas 2009 will not be the same without Vincent's card and letter. At first he was just an 8"x 10" photo at the beginning of the line on top of Uncle Joe and Aunt Rosie's piano. He was my father's first cousin. They were both born in Gibsonburg. Later in life we met in person and remained in contact. Next March I'll not send a birthday card rather remember the man Vincent was. They spoke highly of him, those cousins Lloyd and Sam Immel.
Steven Puro
December 23, 2009
Vince Immel was a foundation to the St. Louis University Law School and the legal prfession. He maintained the highest standards of integrity and required that students and faculty also maintain those standards. I met him during my early years at St. Louis University and participated in many conversations and discussions. His probing questions always kept my brain cells in an active mode. Vince Immel's challenge to all he encountered was to sustain the best intellectual and moral tradition of the law.
Joel Moneger
December 21, 2009
Death is a sad part of life for those who remain alive. But with Vince it is quite different. First, he had a perception of a continuation of life beyound life. Second, he gave so much to the others in the law school and other places that he will remain alive in the mind of many. I still remember when I met Vince. New visiting professor from Europe in 1994, I had to learn before teaching US students in Law. He kindly spent a great deal of time with me. He gave me the elements of the socratic method and some tricks to keep classes at the top level. I learned from him the secret mixture of permanent kindness and strick legal thinking.
I have lost a friend, a colleague, but I have gain so much from him that I will be proud to be a small part of him alive in Paris.
I hope he will find what he believed him. If Paradise exists, he really deserved to join on the spot.
With my best thoughts.
Joel
Darrell O'Neal
December 6, 2009
The death of Professor Immel was a said day. It is always the best icebreaker when you meet people from other areas that went to SLU Law and you say did you have Immel for contracts. The grimace on the person's face said it all. The Don of contracts will be missed. The most honorable memory for me was his connection to the buffalo soldiers during his time in the military it showed me what I always knew about his honor and duty to lead and prepare people to succeed. My condoloence goes out to his family and friends. SLU '99
Jill Hemminger
December 6, 2009
Vince Immel was my mother's first cousin and also knew my Dad very well because they all grew up in Gibsonburg, Ohio. In 2006,when our daughter Johanna decided to attend SLU, we connected with Vince and had the privilege of visiting with him several times over the past three years. My mother, Rita Foos Schlea had Alzheimer's and passed away in June, but the year before I was able to drive my Dad, Robert Schlea, from Cleveland to St. Louis to visit Vince, and the two of them had a wonderful time reminiscing about their early years in Ohio. Dad credits Vince for inspiring him to be a professor (he is a retired math prof from Baldwin-Wallace College), and I'm so thankful that the two of them got to meet with each other before Vince passed away.
Gene Schmittgens
December 4, 2009
I will always be grateful that I had the opportunity to learn from Professor Immel. He was a giant in his field and I will always remember not only the days in class, but most importantly the times I got to spend talking to him outside of the classroom. He always treated us as equals.
December 4, 2009
There can be no doubt that Professor Immel was the one and only Professor Kingsfield from the movie “Paper Chase”. So many generations of lawyers have been blessed by the skills and commitment of Professor Immel. He will always be remembered.
Sincerely,
Mark D. Hassakis
Mike Becker
December 3, 2009
Professor Immel was of course our Professor Kingsfield but he was the real thing. I was honored to be able to attend his Memorial and it was a gathering of the faithful. His life of service and commitment to excellence was undeniable... and I remember being so scared of him as a first year. I have never met anyone like him. God's Best Blessings to his family. He was a gift.
SLU Law 87
Stewart Borrow Law '80
December 3, 2009
I had Professor Immel for Contracts and one semester of Remedies. I was initially terrified of him and felt that I had enrolled in Marine Corps bootcamp at Paris Island during my first week of class. As that week drew to a close, I learned that the order for calling on students to give the holdings of cases devolved upon me the Monday of our second week. The case I was expected to report upon was a one paragraph excerpt. Needless to say, my weekend was ruined and I read that paragraph more than 200 times! When Monday came around, he spent most of the class on the preceding case and a UCC section. Then, with five minutes left in the class, he called on me. I gave him the answers he was looking for and he did not bawl me out, correct my grammar or ask me to speak louder. After class, one of my friends pointed out that I had been the first member of the class who was left unscathed. Like other entrants, I have similar stories of the proper use of "regards" as well as his response when a student would say "you know" being "No, I do-o-o-on't know!" All told, I began to see the more human side of Professor Immel toward the end of Contracts class and the beginning of Remedies. His high standards and life lessons were extremely invaluable! To the members of his family, I send my condolences. However, you should know that his memory will live on in the hearts and minds of thousands of lawyers!
Terry and Sarah Williams
December 3, 2009
My daughter Sarah and I were able to travel to St. Louis and attend Uncle Vinnie's funeral. We were joined by many relatives, friends, and students of Uncle Vinnie's. We always knew Uncle Vinnie was a special man who loved his job dearly at St Louis University.
What we didn't realize is how much of an impact Uncle Vinnie had on the lives of others. We were very touched by all the stories shared by so many. Yet, us cousins too shared in the fear of Uncle Vinnie's "booming voice", The Immel trait of "laughing with their shoulders",and the cherished Christmas cards each with their personal note.
We are so happy that his spirit touched the lives of so many. We are also grateful that we were all able to share the love of this great man known to us as "Uncle Vinnie."
December 3, 2009
I'm sure God broke the mold after He created Professor Immel. Of all my law school memories, the ones I have of him and his class are the brightest. To this day I still cringe when I hear someone say "air" instead of "err." To this day I can remember exactly where I sat in his class--on the left side of the room, second row from the front, 4th seat from the windows. After each class I would compulsively count the number of people and cases to be discussed before what should be MY case came up. And the cases just before and after mine to cover any unexpected contingency. Is there some obscure piece of legal lingo that he might want defined? Was the court issuing the opionion merely an appeals court or the state Supreme Court? ( I seem to recall that New York doesn't call its Supreme Court the Supreme Court....) And I still remember how pleased with myself I was after I had adequately withstood his inquisition.
I feel sorry for the "younger generations" who began their careers after Vince had stopped teaching. They'll never know what an experience, gentleman, scholar and teacher they missed.
As far as I'm concerned, St. Louis U. should rename the law school the Vincent C. Immel School of Law at St. Louis University.
God bless and God speed, Vince. You will be missed by more people than you could ever have imagined.
J.L. Whaley, '76
St. Louis
David Mogil, Class of 1987
December 3, 2009
I am honored to be able to say that I was lucky to be a student of Professor Immel’s, and a recipient of his generosity. However, indeed, I was lucky not to be the recipient of his ‘wrath’. When it was my turn to present a case he came up to my seat before class and asked me if I was ready? I replied, “Ready for what?” I quickly realized he was not in a joking mood and I immediately changed my response to “Yes, sir.” He said, “Good, because I only want to spend 5 minutes on it.” He went back down to start class. True to his word, he immediately asked me 3 leading questions and then went on to the next case. I couldn’t believe how lucky I was; no embarrassment, no humiliation. To top that, I was even luckier on the final. The final only consisted of 5 questions and one of them was about my case. Needless to say I got all 20 points for that question. What a gift! That was one of the best gifts I have ever received. Thank you, Professor Immel for your amazing generosity.
December 2, 2009
Vince Immel remains an high academic and professional influence on generations of lawyers graduating from SLU. For me, he was a real hero with an uncommon touch. I will always remember being astounded by his agreement to have an informal lunch with me and fellow law student Dave Adams at the Wendy's on Grand Ave -- fish burgers with chili hot sauce all around I believe.
And, I will never forget his classroom explanation of the distinction between "fraud in the inducement" and "fraud in the execution" and his emphasis that fraud in the execution was almost never seen. This was followed by a hypothetical and a request to the class to identify which example of fraud had been given. The first reply was "fraud in the execution" which was followed by a short interval of silence and a resounding "NO! NO! NO! NO!"
Donald K. Anton, Class of '86
Visiting Professor of Law (2008-2010)
University of Michigan Law School
Professor of Law
The Australian National University College of Law
Canberra, Australia
Susan Gentle
December 2, 2009
I was privileged to have Professor Immel for Contracts and will never forget his devotion to the law and to his students. Even if he scared most of us half to death. RIP to a great lawyer.
Matt H
December 2, 2009
My condolences to Professor Immel's family. Godspeed Professor Immel. I can only say that he influenced me in many ways and that he was truly a wonderful human being.
Mark Stewart
December 2, 2009
"In regards to the holding. . "
"REGARDS ARE SOMETHING YOU SEND YOUR MOTHER IN A LETTER. THE EXPRESSION IS IN REGAAAAARD TO."
That interchange in 1978 is triggered everytime I hear the wrong usage.
I echo the others. . great man. . excellent educator.
Booker Evans
December 2, 2009
I am sadden to learn of Professor Immel's passing. I learned the importance of preparation in his contracts class and I have applied those lessons my entire career. However, my fondest memory of him is having dinner with him when he would visit Las Vegas. It was then that I was privileged to see his lighter side and to learn how warm and caring a person he was. I had the honor of spending some time with him during the class of '78 reunion in September of '08. I was surprised and more than pleased that he had followed my career. I will carry the memory of our conversation with me for the rest of my life. Rest in Peace Professor Immel. Yours is a life well lived.
Booker T. Evans, Jr. Class of '78
Monica Metz
December 2, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with Professor Immel's family. I can only imagine how much you will miss him!
SLU LAW '99
Robert Cohen
December 2, 2009
My sympathy to the family of Professor Immel and to all faculty, staff and fellow students -past and present. It's really hard to know what to say. I never would have guessed, during my first semester of law school, that the intimidating face of the stern professor would one day turn into the welcoming and laughing face of a friend. Thank God for that. A few years ago, I asked Professor Immel how his classes were going. A very serious and troubled look came to him immediately. He said "they don't want to think! They want all the answers to be fed to them." I assured Professor Immel that our class was just as dumb, frustrating and eager to be given answers but that he had forgotten how bad we were! Professor Immel has certainly not passed away from me. I will remember him always and be grateful that my path in life crossed the path of this great man. Robert S. Cohen '71
Joseph Benson
December 2, 2009
Professor Immel was the ideal of the gentleman-scholar. In my last year of law school, I had an article published in the August issue of A.B.A.J. It was due out on August 1, 1984. Professor Immel received his copy on July 31st. Walking up to me in the law library where I was working he said with a smile on his face: "Do you know this person?" Yes, Professor, I do." And then, Professor Immel responded: "Congratulations, Mr. Benson. This is scholarship,and I am proud of you."
In response to Mr. Bastian's request, I will state the facts, issue and rule in Cook v. Lum, 55 N.J.L.373, 26 A.803 (1893).
Facts: A. deposited from time to time with B. certain sums of money. A had no voucher for the deposits, but had in her poseession a piece of paper containing a column of figures made by B., the sum total which corresponded to the aggregate of the deposits.
With exception of the date on the piece of paper there was no writing.
A. gave to C. orally these sums of money, and delivered to C. the slip of paper in question.
At trial, the jury issued a special verdict finding that the delivery of the slip of paper evidence donative intent of a chose in action.
Issue: Whether the trial court erred in in holding that said paper was sufficient to show donative intent in a third party gratuitous assignemnt.
(Professor Immel: What rights if any does A. have against B., and what rights if any does B. have agianst A.)
Rule: With resepct to things both tangible and intangible,mere words of donation will not suffice. Here, a piece of paper with nothing more than figure on it, is not evidence of a writing showing donative intent. Delivery of so insignificant a paper cannot operate to legalize the transaction.
Held: Judgment for Lum, adminsitrator of the Estate of Cook.
Joseph Fred Benson,
Jefferson City, Missouri
Law 1985, Grad. 1977, A&S 1976
Kennard Woods
December 2, 2009
Never was I so pleased to have received a C+ from a professor . . . Ken Woods '79
Rich Brandt
December 2, 2009
Vince Immel embodied all the best of what it means to be a "lawyer". He was brilliant in every way and imparted in both his teaching and his life qualties that have served as constant "pole stars" in how the life of the law should be lived. I left St. Louis U. School of Law and headed back to the "wilds" of Western PA in December 1972. I had started in the night school when I was stationed in the Air Force at HQ ACIC on Second & Arsenal Streets, 2 blocks from the Budweiser "Mothership". "Dean" Vince Immel's annual Christmas card was always eagerly awaited and occupied a special place every year in our collection. He always personalized the note that was enclosed. Lord only knows how many former students Vince favored with such an honor. My wife Kathy and I met in 1969 at SLU and sat in the same Contracts 1 class. I will never forget that in studying together the word "lathes" was central to a case - I informed Kathy of my understanding of what "lathes" were - of course Vince (Dean Immel to us then) called on Kathy to discuss the case and I was 100% wrong in what I had informed her. Vince after letting her know of her error in a strong yet tempered way went on to get the correct answer from another student. Classic Vince Immel - get the point in a way that one remembered. Fortunately Kathy forgave me and later consented to my proposal of marriage. Later, in taking Remedies 1 the following year I thought that I had flunked the final and that my law school career had come to a screeching halt. Convinced by Kathy to make an appointment I met with Dean Immel 1 week into the second semester. After pulling my blue book down from the box on the shelf in his office in the old law school (that sat above the theater and had pipes that banged like nobody's business when the hot water flowed!), Vince reviewed his notes (lots of red marks I recall!) and proceeded to inform me that based on his grading of the first 2 of 3 questions that I had a C+. I then asked permission to join the Remedies 2 class. Vince told me that I could but that I had a lot of catching up to do - I did and today I am still actively practicing with my Remdies textbook prominently displayed on a bookcase in the waiting room of my "country lawyer" practice in Sewickley, PA. Vince Immel was what my Mother would have described as " A Prince of a Man". He will be greatly missed. Though many miles separated us during these past 36 years since I graduated from SLU School of Law I have often felt Vince looking over my shoulder quering and then suggesting ways to approach a contract case and crafting a successful resolution of it through an appropriate remedy. Vince Immel indelibly left his mark - a positive legacy for so many of us. He came from a very special mold and we are all the better for all that he brought to this world.
December 2, 2009
An excellent teacher and an inspiration. He epitomized the Law School and will be well remembered.
Anita Esslinger, SLU Law Class of 1978
Bryan Cave, London, England
Pete Rubey, SLU Law, Class of 1989
December 2, 2009
It would be redundant for me to point out what a great teacher Professor Immel was, so I thought it would be better to add a few of his sayings. One was, "You'll want to know that for that little quiz you'll be taking in July!" When a student was not getting the point, he would say, "You know when you'll be free to take that position?" After the student gave the usual response of "No Professor, when?" he would say, "when you're confirmed by the Senate!" Around final exam time, he would recount the story of a colleague who, many years before, would say before the final exam, "Congress is now in session!" As Professor Immel told the story, a student would invariably pipe up, "Why do you say that, because we are smart like Congressmen?" and then Professor Immel would add the colleague's punchline, "No, because of all the new law that gets written!" I could probably add some more just like those, but it really isn't necessary to make my point that not only was he a great teacher, but he gave alot of us some wonderful comedic material in case working as an attorney for a living did not quite pan out.
John Hefner
December 1, 2009
During first semester of the contracts course Professor Immel called on one of our classmates to "state" a case........the student stammered......then he stuttered......then he looked down at his feet......then, in a slow and weak voice....he admitted that he had not read the case........(no "good cause" was provided).....Professor Immel "winged" a piece of chalk in the direction of the student.....and invited him to leave the class room.......(he was back the next period without chalk marks and completed the course)......I will never forget his laugh....He would clench his teeth in a wonderful smile.....and his shoulders would bounce up and down almost touching his ears...Who will ever forget the joke about the third party contract....I won't..
He was loved by his students, old and young, with the affection afforded a great teacher. We were blessed to have him as our teacher and as a great supporter of the law school. class of 1978
Clara "Bizit" Harshman
December 1, 2009
Vincent was my first cousin, and we grew up together back here in Ohio...at age 4, Vincent couldn't pronounce my name, Clara Elizabeth...so he called me "Bizit," and I'm still Bizit to some...lol. Over the years, we've kept in touch by phone, in letters and Christmas Cards. I will miss him...
Raymond Flojo
December 1, 2009
A Law Professor who, among many things, linked generations of attorneys. Thank you, Professor Immel.
-- Ray Flojo (SLU Law '98)
Anne Waller
December 1, 2009
I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the family of
Vince Immel. My late husband was a friend of long standing, and I remember Vince attending all of the class reunions
of the Class of '48 My husband, Paul Waller, passed away
last Thanksgiving..
Phyllis Hartrich
December 1, 2009
I can't claim to have had a personal relationship with Prof. Immel, but nonetheless, he was among my most influencial teachers. It was inspiring to know his exacting standards and my respect for him translated to self-respect when I aimed as high. The Immel-ism's still haunt me - "you give your REGARDS to Broadway! you speak in REGARD TO . . ." I wish there were more like him.
James Grant
December 1, 2009
For 35 years since graduating from SLU I have exchanged Christmas Cards with Professor Immel. I cannot think of anyone who has touched my life as much as he did. Through our letters I have kept in touch all these years. I will sadly miss him. Jim Grant '75
John Davis
December 1, 2009
How could one ever forget that infectous laugh. What a wonderful human being he was and such an inspiration to all of us.
Karen Choate
December 1, 2009
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Professor Immel. He was an excellent teacher and a good man. I will never forget one of my first days in his class. Eager to "get my feet wet," I volunteered in his class. I will never forget the case (Williams v. Walker Thomas) or the issue (unconscionability). Talk about tough. The class was taught in a former banquet hall in Lewis Hall. Thinking I was too soft spoken (and I was), Professor Immel walked out of the classroom and asked me to yell my responses to him. I decided that day -if I could handle that- I would make it through law school. No Judge has ever intimidated me as much as Professor Immel did that day. No Judge has ever asked me to speak up either. I remember Professor Immel every I time I attend Mass and we are called to recite the Our Father. I know the difference between the noun, trespass, and the verb, trespass- both in use and pronunciation. I am no longer in St. Louis but will remember Professor Immel at Mass tomorrow. My deepest sympathies to his family.
Karen J. Choate, SLU Law '79
December 1, 2009
A great act to follow. Elbert Luh DeSoto Missouri
Peter Zeughauser '75
December 1, 2009
I am so deeply saddened, and regret very much that with the short notice it simply isn’t possible for me to attend the memorial service for such a dear friend and kind, great and remarkable man who firmly but ever so gently touched my life and changed me and my career for the better in so many immeasurable ways. I am hopeful that the law school will schedule a memorial service with sufficient notice for out-of-town alumni to attend and celebrate the life of, pay their respects for and share with one another our fond memories of Professor Immel. In the meantime, I will reflect on the many wonderful lessons about life and the law embodied in his unrelenting dedication to leading a good life unselfishly devoted to teaching and helping others.
Brian McCallister, Class of '88
December 1, 2009
Professor Immel left his fingerprints on the souls of many, mine included. What a tremendous example he has set for all of his pupils, friends and family. It is truly the passing of an era and he will be greatly missed. I offer my sincere condolences to Professor Immel's family.
Sally and Gene Kopecky
December 1, 2009
We will so miss our annual Christmas card from DEAN IMMEL!!! We will never forget the day he appeared on our doorstep in Iowa in the late sixties..so fun!! He not only taught Gene he taught our sons Jonathan and Chris.....what a wonderful wonderful man!!! Gene and Sally Kopecky
John Diggins
December 1, 2009
On November 26, 2009, the legal community suffered a great loss with the passing of Vincent C. Immel. As a professor, scholar, instructor and citizen he was a giant of a man. Though I only saw him infrequently through the years since graduation I will miss him very much.
Chris Kopecky SLU Law'91
December 1, 2009
Professor Immel was truly an inspirational teacher, lawyer, and gentleman. He taught not only contracts to me, but my Dad twenty some years before me and my brother seven years after me. My Dad doing much better in his class then my brother and I. Professor Immel showed up to the hospital when I was born in support of my dad, who was his student at the time, and continued to send Christmas cards to him up to last Christmas, almost 43 years later. I will never forget Esmerelda climbing up the flag pole, nor the word "quasi" being pronounced "qu-ay-zie", which I teach my own students today. Dean Immel, you will never be forgotten! SLU Law '91
Christine Rollins
December 1, 2009
My fondest memory of Vince Immel occured the year I returned to SLU as a faculty member in 2002. We were on the elevator together. To pass time, I meekly introduced myself and said that I had taken contracts from him in 1993 and that I was excited to start teaching. He told me he remembered. The class was in room 02 and I sat in the far left, third row (of course he was correct). He said your name was not Rollins, it was Stenger (I married after school). As I was wishing him well he said "you may call me Vince now, we are colleagues." As dump founded as a first year, I said "yes Prof. Immel."
Vince you have not only inspired thousands of students, you have inspired many who now teach. Your spirit remains in all of us.
James Crawley
December 1, 2009
Professor Immel was the greatest teacher I ever had. His bark was far worse than his bite. He taught and forced us to think like lawyers. Behind the gruff exterior was the huge, warm heart of a man who cared deeply about the law school and the students he taught. Professor Immel had a tremendous sense of humor and loved being portrayed in the student's annual Law Revue show. I am so fortunate to have been one of his students. LAW '89.
Alan Siegel
December 1, 2009
I was truly saddened to learn of the death of Professor Immel. He had a positive influence on so many. His passing will not, however, put an end to Professor Immel stories; to the contrary, such stories shall now surely multiply. I remember him telling us that if you came to class and didn’t have a chance to prepare to tell him and he wouldn’t call on you but heaven help you if he called on you and you weren't prepared and hadn't told him up front. He understood that sometimes you might have some other more important thing to do than prepare for his class or maybe you just needed a “free pass” for that day (but he also said that you shouldn’t abuse that privilege). And I can remember what he would do to the poor soul who didn’t take him at his word and would try to bluff his or her way through. RIP Professor Immel.
December 1, 2009
He was our Professor Kingsfield and we are all better for the experience. Thank you Professor Immel.
Tiffanie Stasiak '91
Jeremy Deutsch
December 1, 2009
Professor Immel was an original, never to be copied, imitated or duplicated. His love of the law was only surpassed by his love of training a new class of lawyers-to-be. Of course, Professor Immel was tough on 1L's but he believed and knew that good habits needed to be ingrained early and often.
What I, and most who came to know him, learned was that underneath that serious and gruff exterior was a caring and friendly person with an incredible sense of humor. When he laughed and his face turned beet red and his whole body shook you knew that the world was right. But, of course, heaven help those who butchered the English language. I remember once he was grilling a student who started a response with "irregardless." Prof. Immel immediately interjected, "There is no such word as irregardless, it’s regardless." Two minutes later, the student used the word again and Prof. Immel this time said, "There ain't no such word as irregardless." Two minutes later, the student once again used the word, realized what he had done and stopped. Prof. Immel just broke out laughing hysterically.
I also had the extreme pleasure of being one of the Vince Immel Dancers in the early 80's. I believe one of the skits we preformed was to the tune of Runaround Sue. A memorable experience.
His passing is a terrible loss but the many lawyers he taught and touched is a testament to a life lived well and with meaning.
Russ Schenewerk
December 1, 2009
I am a SLU Law alum and one of many lawyers that is grateful to have known and learned from Professor Immel. He -- like the entire law school faculty at SLU, was a class act. Our sincere condolences go out to his family and the faculty of St. Louis University School of Law, during this difficult time.
December 1, 2009
Reading through the responses of fellow attorneys and classmates, I echo their sentiments exactly. Professor Immel was both intimidating and inspirational. I am honored to have been his student for contracts and remedies. The lessons he gave are life-long and enduring, as is his legacy. Rest in peace, Professor Immel, you will be missed.
Kathryn Taylor c/o '79
December 1, 2009
Professor Immel, A humble giant, who molded his pupils with the sternness of his character, kindness of his eyes, and genuine concern for their welfare.
Mary Toy
December 1, 2009
Professor Immel scared me to death for most of my law school career. However, when I finally started practicing law and would be grappling with a contract issue, I would sometimes hear his voice. I couldn't always hear what he was saying, but I knew I'd better find out. And more times than not, finding out what he was saying led me to the solution to the issue I didn't understand. Also importantly, from the time I took Professor Immel's contract law class as a first year student, to this day, I've NEVER used the word "irregardless" or said "verbal" when I meant "oral." Professor Immel's memory will never fade among those of us who were lucky enough to have had him as our professor.
Doreen Dodson
December 1, 2009
Professor Immel was, and his memory will continue to be, the soul of St. Louis U. law school. I had Prof. Salsich (another extraordinary professor) for Contracts, but Prof. Immel for Remedies. As so many others have said, he taught us how to analyze, think, defend our analysis and speak with confidence, but his example of a life well-lived was so much more important. His chuckle, which shook his shoulders, his kindness, humanity, faith,good works---all of these still serve as an example of what it should mean to be the best person we can be, as well as what it means to lawyer well. May God hold you in the hollow of his hand, until we meet again.
Pete Bastian
November 30, 2009
I remember the first day of class 38 years ago. The Professor called upon some unprepared student and asked him to recite the holding in Cook v. Lum. The guy gave some half baked answer which was close to describing the cooking of lum. Scorn reigned. Everyone was prepared after that. He did not like the use of the word "like". It was hippy talk in those days. He always showed up at our "Happy Hour" which our class inaugurated on Friday afternoons. He was witty and charming. I have a good grounding in Contracts and Remedies due to him. In recent years I would run across him in the library and he always remembered me from years past. I had worked in the Law Library and Vince was one who knew where the books were located. When I next go back to visit the school I will wander around the entry lobby which has been named after him. I cannot make the service as I am in North Carolina. Will someone please recite the holding in Cook v. Lum? He will appreciate it.
M.P. Bastian
John Doskocil
November 30, 2009
There isn't a man in our class of 1959 who didn't think of Mr. Immel as a great teacher, (tough but fair), mentor and friend through all these years. You couldn't ask for better memories of one of the best men to have been in our lives. He will be missed.
Heather Paraino, c/o 1997
November 30, 2009
Professor Immel was on sabbatical during my 1L year, so I had Professor Goldstein instead (we were his first class!)I did not consider my SLU Law education complete without the "Immel Experience" so I signed up for his remedies my 3L year. It was the best experience. I'll never forget his response when I once admitted confusion in class.... "Ms. Paraino, you've confused us all." Rest in peace Professor Immel, you've earned it.
Lyle McFarlin
November 30, 2009
I studied Contracts under professor Immel as a 1L in 1986. Some twenty-five years later my son took Vince Immel's Remedies class. Comparing notes, my son and I agreed that this man was a giant in the classroom. His dedication to teaching was unsurpassed. His devotion to students and SLU Law school without equal. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten.
Gary Sanguinet
November 30, 2009
I simply feel priviledged to be among the thousands of lawyers whose lives were touched, and improved, by Professor Immel.
Joyce Savio Herleth '79
November 30, 2009
In Contracts, I was terrified of Vince and his Socratic method. My only hope was to survive the grillings in class and the final exams in the course. By the time I took Remedies, I was both awed and terrified of his teaching abilities. I cannot recall any grade I ever received in law school - except for an "A" in Remedies. It was the proudest moment of my law school career.
However, working at SLU Law gave me the opportunity to know Vince as a kind, caring man, not simply a brilliant teacher. I was lucky to know him as both - and I will greatly miss him.
Robert Brejcha, SLU Law '79
November 30, 2009
The intelligence to impart greatness and the humor to be humble. Just a few of the memories we will have from this truly great man.
Thank you Professor Immel - teacher in so many ways.
November 30, 2009
Professor Immel spoke at orientation for first-year law students in 1975, and I took a newly-purchased pad to take notes. As he spoke to us with an intensity that he would demonstrate in every contracts and remedies class, the only thing I wrote on my pad was "mad dog." I was terrified and wondered what I had gotten myself into. Even though I never fully escaped the fear I felt when I walked into one of his classrooms, over the next three years I saw that he was not only a extraordinarily effective teacher, but a warm and generous man who loved being part of the the lives of his students, who rarely missed a faculty-student social function, and who, despite his imtimidating classroom persona, didn't hesitate to don a multi-colored birthday hat at a Tom Keefe birthday party. Even though he could be hard on students in class, he was only as hard on someone as he needed to be and no more. There was always a purpose. And I came to see that he understood the limits of each student in his class, and knew which ones he could intellectually flog without any lasting harm and which ones he needed to push with a gentler hand. He surely cared about the pursuit in which we were all engaged, but he cared as much or more about the people we were and could be.
Tom Weaver '78
Dan Schuering, Law '91
November 30, 2009
I had the privilege of introducing my daughter, a St. Louis University law School One L, to Professor Immel this past summer. Much to my surprise and delight, he remembered me and a particlar exchange he and I had many years before in his class. Even in his last months, he was of good humor, sound advice and straight talk. To those of us who had the experience of learning contracts from the Professor, we have lost a good friend, a sound and steady mentor and the best example that I know of what a lawyer should be.
Michelle Funkenbusch
November 30, 2009
I checked out 13 practice tests from his office, read every case in the Remedies book, and had two outlines of his class, but the mere look on his face paralyzed me during the final. I learned a lot about myself that day and about what it takes to be a lawyer. Thinking like a lawyer isn't just reading, memorizing, and analyzing... it is about thinking on your feet and having conviction, strength, and confidence. He is and will always be the most influential teacher I ever had. While his body may have passed, his legacy lives on in thousands of lawyers. Professor Immel is no doubt part of the soul of St. Louis University Law School. Thank you Professor Immel for all that you were and are.
Michelle M. Funkenbusch, Class of '99
November 30, 2009
The best teacher I had at any stage of my education.
Thomas J Casey
SLU Law 73
Bill Boiston, P&L '82, Law'89.
November 30, 2009
A Jesuit once told me that singleheartedness is the measure of a man. By that norm, Vince Immel was a most extraordinary person. He was a gracious person, a perfect gentleman, a faithful and devout Catholic and a matchless teacher. For fifty-one years no one was more singlehearted, no one loved more or served better St. Louis University School of Law. He was a man! May Vince Immel watch over St. Louis University from heaven as he did on earth. RIP
November 30, 2009
Vince Immel was one of the greatest influences in my life. He taught you to "think like a lawyer." Not only was he the best (and most intimidating) teacher I ever had, he was just a great person. He was fun to be with and an intelligent and witty man. My wife, Kathleen, and I spent many wonderful times with him. John Schobel '73 (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
Tom Spalding '93
November 29, 2009
I was warned ahead of time that Professor Immel was exactly like the character in the movie "The Paper Chase." Indeed, he was just as intimidating. Calling on people by their names on the first day, and demanding excellence in thought. First Year Contracts under Vince Immel was a crucible shared by the likely majority of St. Louis lawyers. After going through the fire, we were not only strangely bound together as students, but we also all became better attorneys. Thank you Professor. You made a positive difference to many.
George T. Mehan, Jr.
November 29, 2009
A poet whose name escapes me said - Memories are like roses in December. If that is the case, Vince Immel was an arboretum in full bloom.
However,the words of an anonymous Greek poet, introduced to me by Father Robert Henle S.J. are closer to my heart. The words are - They told me Heracletus that you were dead. They brought me bitter words to hear and bitter tears to shed. How oft I remember that walking you and I, would tire the sun with talking and send him down the sky.
Vince truly was an experience no man should miss.
God love you Vince (& I'm sure He does).
Katie Walsh
November 29, 2009
Professor Immel was a wonderful man and teacher. I remember being terrified when I first had him as a first year but, after getting to know him, remember him as kind and that his whole body would shake when he laughed.
Scott Levine
November 29, 2009
"Levine! EmPHAsis on the second sylLABLE!"
RIP, Dean Immel.
Jeff Asbed
November 28, 2009
I had him for both 1st year contracts and later for Remedies. He was an amazing teacher who was both intimidating and kind. As a first year law student, I was terrified of him. As a third year I learned that he was a kind and generous man. I remember preparing for my turn in Contracts and when he called on me, my mind went completely blank. He will be missed.
Tracy Mehan
November 28, 2009
Dean Immel was an outstanding professor of law who demanded, and usually obtained, the best from his students. He and his family will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Tracy Mehan '74
Vienna, VA
Tom & Carrie Kramb
November 28, 2009
We would like to express our deepest sympathy to the family of Vincent Immel. I have not seen him in many years but as a child I remember many visits to uncle Joe and aunt Rosie's in G-burg. Our prayers will join with the rest of the Kramb's for Vincent and his family.
Bob Keefe
November 28, 2009
Professor Immel helped to shape thousands of lawyers -- and did so in the same way over the years. He didn't fall prey to grade inflation or unwarranted "self esteem" building or molly coddling. He maintained his standards throughout his teaching career and we, his students, knew that a B earned in 1975 meant the same thing as one earned in 1960 or 2000. He called students out for sloppy thinking or poor preparation. His unwavering insistence on excellence is his legacy and his greatest gift to the legions of his former students.
Danielle Harrison
November 28, 2009
I am honored that I had the experience to study under Professor Immel. He was a great teacher who make me stretch my mind! I still here him saying, " It's pronounced ERR...!" I am praying with your family.
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