Richard Barton Ginsberg

Ginsberg, Richard Barton. 65, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 29 at home. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Cheryl Cassidy and their daughter, Katie Cassidy-Ginsberg. His extended family includes his relatives, Bob and Cathy Weber, David and Janet Cassidy, Laurie Atwood, Susan Cassidy-Fitzgerald and many nieces and nephews, and a multitude of close friends. He was predeceased by his father, Alexander Ginsberg (1996) and his mother, Dorothy (2011). An Ann Arbor resident since arriving for law school at U of M in 1969, Richard was born in Baltimore, MD and attended the University of Pennsylvania graduating in 1969. After law school, Richard worked for VISTA as a volunteer attorney, and then began a long and fruitful career with the Michigan State Appellate Defender Office. Richard left SADO to pursue an independent career as a criminal defense attorney, arguing appellate as well as local cases and often arguing before the 6th Circuit Court (Cinncinati). Richard loved Ann Arbor and was deeply immersed in the cultural events the town offers, co-hosting the University Musical Society Ford Honors Gala for Dave Brubeck, and attending the annual Townie Party as well as participating in all that Ann Arbor offers. Richard loved to travel and did so extensively, visiting Hawaii with Cheryl and Katie many times and vacationing with friends to Mexico or the Caribbean. He was also an active collector of African art, of wine, of books, of art in general, and he loved to go shopping for just about everything. His greatest love, though, was for his darling daughter, Katie, who was the light of his life. He was so proud of her equestrian and academic achievements, and he was especially delighted that she plans to go to law school after graduation, carrying on the family tradition of law as a third generation lawyer. Richard had a rapier-sharp mind, a quick wit, and a generous, often sentimental, heart. He was supportive of a variety of social and political causes, and he was particularly concerned for the plight of the under privileged. His family, friends and his large community of fellow lawyers will deeply miss Richard’s lively sense of humor and his charming personality. A Memorial Gathering for Richard will be held at Muehlig Funeral Chapel, Ann Arbor, on September 6 from 5-8pm. Rabbi Robert Levy will conduct a short service at 6pm during the gathering. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association. Please visit www.muehligannarbor.com to leave the family your condolences.