In Memoriam: Frank D. “Sandy” Tatum
Cooley has lost one of its most profound figures with the passing of Frank D. “Sandy” Tatum. Born on July 10, 1920, Sandy passed just weeks before his 97th birthday.
Sandy joined Cooley in November 1950, and practiced until his retirement in 1993. From 1972 until 1996, the firm now known as Cooley LLP was known as Cooley, Godward, Castro Huddleson & Tatum.
To say that Sandy “retired” in 1993 is a bit of a misnomer as he continued to come to the office almost daily into his 96th year. Having spent the vast majority of his years in practice in San Francisco, he spent his retirement years in Palo Alto, and it was there that his birthday was celebrated annually. As all of those residents in Palo Alto can attest, each year Sandy made abundantly clear in his birthday remarks that the things he treasured most in life were his relationship with his late wife Barbara, who predeceased him earlier this year, his children, and this law firm. As to the latter, he marveled at what the firm had become, all the while downplaying his considerable contributions to this institution.
Sandy was a “renaissance man” in the true sense of the phrase – Rhodes Scholar, brilliant lawyer, accomplished athlete (1942 NCAA golf champion), devoted father and husband, and committed volunteer to many organizations and causes.
With his trademark vice-like handshake, stunning white hair, quick laugh and unparalleled vocabulary, no one who met Sandy could ever forget the experience.
Indeed, Sandy will never be forgotten.
This content is provided for general informational purposes only, and your access or use of the content does not create an attorney-client relationship between you or your organization and Cooley LLP, Cooley (UK) LLP, or any other affiliated practice or entity (collectively referred to as “Cooley”). By accessing this content, you agree that the information provided does not constitute legal or other professional advice. This content is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice from a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction and you should not act or refrain from acting based on this content. This content may be changed without notice. It is not guaranteed to be complete, correct or up to date, and it may not reflect the most current legal developments. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Do not send any confidential information to Cooley, as we do not have any duty to keep any information you provide to us confidential. This content may be considered Attorney Advertising and is subject to our legal notices.