Stephen Bransdorfer received the State Bar of Michigan Roberts P. Hudson Award in 2005. The award was presented by then State Bar President Nancy J. Diehl.

A much-respected former president of the State Bar of Michigan, Stephen C. Bransdorfer has passed away at the age of 77. He died on March 15, after a long battle with cancer. A memorial service is planned for 11 a.m. Friday at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 47 Jefferson Ave. SE in Grand Rapids. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to Frederick Meijer Gardens.

Just two years ago, the State Bar honored Mr. Bransdorfer with the prestigious Hudson Award, for his "unselfish rendering of outstanding and unique service to and on behalf of the State Bar of Michigan, the legal profession, and the public"

Stephen Bransdorfer had practiced law for almost fifty years. His distinguished legal career included two tours in the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington D.C. The first stint included an assignment in Little Rock, Ark., during the school desegregation battle there. Bransdorfer was a Justice Department spokesman during the legal fight. He served as deputy assistant attorney general from 1989 to 1993 during George H.W. Bush's presidency. Prior to assuming that position, he was in private practice in Grand Rapids focusing on civil litigation. He was a zealous advocate for his clients and was regarded one of the best trial attorneys in the West Michigan area.

His success rate in complicated litigation matters reflected his individual talent as well as his ability to achieve the necessary teamwork among his associates. In 1993, he formed a law firm with his sons and later served as a neutral facilitator and arbitrator until his retirement in September 2003.

Bransdorfer incorporated service to the profession early in his career by chairing the Young Lawyers Section in 1963 - 1964. Thirty years later, he chaired the Senior Lawyers Section. In between, among many other activities and responsibilities, he was a member of the Board of Commissioners from 1968 to 1975 and president of the Bar from 1974 to 1975. Mr. Bransdorfer has been a mentor, teacher, and role model for young lawyers with whom he worked. He shared his experience by active involvement and leadership with many groups and organizations.

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