We are sorry to share the news of the passing of Robert J. Giuffra Sr. father of NYSTLA DirectorThomas Guiffra of Rheingold, Valet, Rheingold, McCartney & Giuffra, LLP.
Robert J., of Bronxville, New York and Otis, Massachusetts. Beloved husband, father and grandfather, Bob died on April 30, 2016 surrounded by his family and in the loving arms of his wife of 57 years, Dr. Mary J. Giuffra.
Born in Brooklyn, New York on August 28, 1930, Bob was the son of Severino and Teresita Giuffra, immigrants from northern Italy. He was a graduate of St. Edmond’s School, St. Augustine’s High School, St. John’s University School of Law (LL.B.), and Brooklyn Law School (LL.M.). He served overseas in the United States Army during the Korean War.
After the war, Bob began law practice in New York City with Casey, Lane & Mittendorf and then joined what is now known as Dougherty, Ryan, Giuffra, Zambito & Hession. For many years, he was Dougherty Ryan’s senior partner. A leading member of the admiralty, insurance and products liability bars, he had an extensive trial and appellate practice in federal and state courts. He maintained an active law practice into his eighth decade. He mentored many young lawyers, including three of his children. He served as a member of the Departmental Disciplinary Committee and Committee on Character and Fitness of the Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court, First Judicial Department. He also was a member of the Board of Trustees of The Berkeley Institute School.
Bob was most devoted to and proud of his family. He is survived by his beloved wife Mary, a psychotherapist, member of faculty of the New York University School of Nursing, and founder of the Nursing Program at the College of Mount St. Vincent; four children, Robert Jr. of New York City, Mary Elizabeth of Paris, Lisa of Bronxville, and Thomas of Scarsdale; eight grandchildren, Gabriela, Alessandra, Olivier, Elizabeth, Claire, Caroline, Robert III, and Thomas Jr.; and his sister, Alice Brusati.
The funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, May 4th, at 10:45 a.m, at The Church of Saint Joseph in Bronxville, New York. The family is receiving friends on Tuesday, May 3rd from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Fred H. McGrath & Son Funeral Home, 20 Cedar Street, in Bronxville. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to The Robert J. Giuffra 53L Scholarship at St. John’s University School of Law.
NYSTLA extends its sympathies to his family and friends.
Evan M. Goldberg
President
New York State Trial Lawyers Association