In Memoriam: Joseph L. Hardig, Jr., 43rd SBM President

The State Bar of Michigan mourns the loss of its 43rd president, Joseph L. Hardig, Jr., who died May 14, at age 92.

Hardig served as president of the State Bar from 1977 to 1978. A 1977 Michigan Bar Journal feature introducing him as president described him as a “perfectionist for preparation with an enormous capacity for detail” and also highlighted his demeanor.

“Politeness and tact come naturally. To those ingredients add perspective, good judgment, sensitivity, refinement and the gentlemanly quality of making other people feel at ease.”

Before serving as State Bar president, Hardig was appointed to the Board of Commissioners in 1969 and he also chaired several committees.

Hardig, who focused on litigation, corporate law, and family law, was a Fellow with the American College of Trial Lawyers (State Chairman 1993–1994) and involved with the American Bar Association (Delegate to House of Delegates, 1977–1989).

He was the father of five children; Lori Nolan (Chris), Joseph L. Hardig, III (Sara), Amy Lydy (David), Susan Reasoner (Barrett), and Jennifer Hardig-Kolp (Chris Dillaway), grandfather of 16 grandchildren, and brother of the late Carolyn Harte (the late Houston).

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.