Thompson Coburn LLP issued the following announcement on April 28.
It is with sadness that Thompson Coburn recognizes the passing of our former Chief Information Officer Phil Rightler, who died April 21 at age 69.
Phil served as Thompson Coburn’s CIO for almost 30 years until his retirement last year. Phil joined the Firm in 1990 from Chrysler, and helped Thompson Coburn stay on the forefront of technology as the legal industry moved from an era of electronic typewriters to desktop computers to the internet and mobile devices.
“Phil was extremely dedicated to the Firm and cared about the people in our department,” said Rick McDannel, Enterprise Applications Director, who was Phil’s second technical hire in 1991. “He continuously looked for opportunities to advance the Firm’s technology and enhance client service. As a leader, he motivated us to be creative and forward-thinking. We accomplished things no other law firm had done. It was an honor and privilege to work for him for 28 years.”
Phil’s efforts led to the Firm being recognized as a national technology leader by PC Week magazine, Price Waterhouse and the International Legal Technology Association (ILTA). During his tenure, Thompson Coburn received multiple No. 1 national rankings for information technology in the American Lawyer Mid-Level Associates Survey.
At his retirement celebration last year, Phil said his proudest accomplishment was the people in his department, calling them “a group of dedicated and responsible professionals.” He also recognized the “jewels” of his life: his wife, Debbie, and daughters Hillary, Heather and Amanda.
A memorial service for Phil held later this year. Memorial donations can be made in Phil’s name to the American Heart Association and the Saint Louis Zoo.
Original source can be found here.