DIRECT
Roderick T. Dunne
In Memoriam, (1960 - 2023)
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It is with great sadness that we say farewell to renowned Chicago insurance coverage attorney, Roderick (“Rory”) Dunne who passed away on January 19, 2023, almost twenty-two years from the day that Rory helped co-found our law firm of Karbal Cohen Economou Silk & Dunne. Prior to that time, he was a partner at the Chicago law firm of Peterson Ross.
Mr. Dunne was well known among his industry peers for his larger-than-life persona. His assortment of coats, kilts and quirky ensembles left his approach to business casual unmatched. Yet, behind the persona was a gentle giant with a quick wit and brilliant mind who touched all he came into contact with. Although the great outdoors was perhaps where he felt most at home, his energy and personality took over almost any room he entered.
Mr. Dunne developed close relationships within and outside of the insurance industry. He was always there to help a friend needing a new position in the industry, lend advice, or simply listen. We were always surprised by the large net Rory cast and the many lives he profoundly touched. Rory was an avid supporter and volunteer of "A Special Wish Foundation" and the "One Step at a Time" cancer program for children, from having survived cancer as a child to fighting cancer again through his final days.
Rory was a proud graduate from Northwestern University’s Pritzker School of law. Rory’s entrance into law began under the guidance of his late father, Arthur "Moose" L. Dunne, once Chief Judge of the Chancery Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County. Before Northwestern, he received his bachelor’s degree in Art from Williams College, where he played football, hockey, and produced characteristically unique works of original art, some of which have graced the walls of the firm he helped found.
Rory was a proud family man, who valued his personal life above all of his legal achievements and successes. He leaves behind his wife Laura and his four beautiful children, Griffin, Christian, Lucia and Greta.
He was a leader within the firm, who took fierce pride in the firm’s collegial and supportive atmosphere. He was beloved and respected by all and will be missed but never forgotten.