Josiah "Jerry" Brill Obituary (1928 - 2011)

JOSIAH ESCHEL BRILL , JR (JERRY) Born March 27, 1928, fourth in a family of five children. Preceded in death by son, Marc; parents, Josiah and Mary; and siblings, Betty Munch, Aaron Lionel Brill and Connie Grayson. Survived by wife Judith of 57 years; daughters, Patti Seal (Scott), Cynthia Brill and Nancy Killion (Kenneth); grandson, Ethan Killion; granddaughter, Molly; great-grandson, Brill; and sister, Barbara Schwartz. Jerry joined his father in the practice of law, following his graduation from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1952 and a two year stint in the Army during the Korean War. They merged practices with Karlins, Grossman, Karlins & Siegel in 1967 and, after numerous name changes, the firm evolved into the Siegel Brill Law Firm. Jerry became known as an authority in zoning and land use and the law of eminent domain, giving seminars in both fields for many years. Jerry was active in community affairs, serving on the boards of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Jewish Federation, Jewish Family and Children’s Service, Sholom Home, Oak Ridge Country Club, the United Way and Temple Israel, among others. He retired from the practice of law after 52 years, but continued to enjoy his many interests with great relish, including golfing, gardening, and keeping in touch with family and friends at the computer 4 to 5 hours a day. Jerry kept his liberal friends abreast with political commentary and analysis from his favorite progressive news sources, using the Internet to stay ahead. Special thanks to his niece, Donna Kuller, and Bev and Nathan from Allina Hospice for helping make his last days comfortable. Judy and their children adored him, loved his sense of humor and the strength he provided to all he loved. He will be greatly missed by all. Funeral service FRIDAY, 11:00AM, TEMPLE ISRAEL, 2324 Emerson Ave. S., Mpls. Memorials preferred to the Michael Kuller/Jerry Brill Hospice Fund at Temple Israel, or Donor's Favorite Charity. SHIVA: 1375 Skyline Drive, Golden Valley (Sat. and Sun. 7PM). Parking and a shuttle will be available at the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology, 4225 Golden Valley Rd., Golden Valley.