Brian E. Donohue

Brian E. Donohue, Esq.

Troy - Brian E. Donohue, father of Justin O. Donohue and son of the late Edward J. Donohue and I. Sibyl Douglas Donohue, passed away on Wednesday, October 17, 2012, from complications from a lengthy illness.

Brian was born in Troy and raised in Melrose, NY, and practiced law in Troy since his graduation from Albany Law School in 1983. He was a noted criminal defense attorney who earned the respect and admiration of all members of the legal community, from judges and fellow attorneys to the clients he represented. He was a member of Albany Law Review, Rensselaer County Bar Association, New York State Bar Association, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. As a student at Albany Law, he taught a legal writing class. Brian was recognized in "Who's Who in American Law, as well as being the subject of a featured article in the New York Law Journal. He was honored with an award from the Troy Police Officers for his advocacy on their behalf.

Along with his son, Brian leaves his sister, Gail Grossman, wife of Dr. Allan M. Grossman, his nephew Matthew A. Grossman (Sarvee), his nieces, Amy G. Dobbs (Jeff), and Ashley L. Grossman all of Knoxville, TN, his aunt Arlene D. Roberts (Norman), cousin Douglas M. Roberts and two great nieces.

Brian was known for his passion and empathy. His passion was for the law, and for criminal defense in particular. He felt that criminal law was the most challenging aspect of law, and that the people he represented were entitled to the best he could offer. He fulfilled that obligation with dignity and honesty.

Brian's compassion is well known to his friends, the people he represented, and those with whom he practiced. Brian's interests in his clients went beyond mere representation. At the conclusion of a matter, most clients considered Brian not only a top grade attorney, but also a friend.

Brian dedicated his practice to the representation of all, and gave a tireless effort to each client, regardless of whether the matter was a small violation of law or highest level of crime, and without concern as to whether the client was indigent or of means. He was a credit to the legal community and an outstanding example of what an attorney should be.

In his personal life, Brian was vibrant and a profound influence on the ones he loved. He was known for his deep existential insight, imparting patriarchal wisdom and love in letters, wedding toasts, and hours-long sit-downs. He was a lifelong Yankee fan and continued to watch each game before the onset of his illness. He enjoyed vacations with his family to Cape Cod, Kennebunkport, Maine, and Walt Disney World. He affirmed that "Life is pretty cool" and had a truly special appreciation for life's important things.

He is already missed.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Church, 310 Spring Avenue, between Spring and Pawling Troy, Tuesday at 11AM with Rev. James J. Vaughan.

Calling hours will be on Monday from 4-8 pm at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc., 276 Pawling Avenue, Troy. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the Mohawk and Hudson River Humane Society 3 Oakland Avenue Menands, NY 12204.

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