Michael Baker Grayson |
| Posted 2017-12-26 by Judy Wight Branson |
| The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Thursday, December 21, 2017, page 5a It is with deep sadness that the family of Michael Grayson announces his death on Friday, Dec. 15, 2017, at 5 p.m. in Tucson, Arizona. Michael was an accomplished lawyer, caring father and beloved friend to many. His sense of humor, generous spirit and deep kindness touched those who knew him, either for their entire lives or for only a few hours. His joy was contagious. As one of his friends put it, “There was no one who loved life more than Michael.” Born on July 3, 1944, in Las Vegas, Nevada, Michael spent his childhood moving between Las Vegas and Prescott, Arizona. While some might have been daunted by this frequent change, Michael made friends at every stop. A talented athlete and social butterfly, he played baseball and basketball in junior high and high school and was voted “most popular” his senior year. Both trends would follow him later in life. Michael attended Arizona State University and graduated with a pre- law degree in 1966. Upon graduation, he joined the Army where he attended Officer Candidate School and served as a Lieutenant at Camp Roberts near Paso Robles, California. He was proud to serve his country and developed friendships with his unit that were some of his strongest and endured throughout his life. After the military, Michael enrolled in the University of Arizona Law School, graduating in 1972. He began his law career as a public defender in Tucson, where he quickly established himself as a capable orator and effective lawyer. He defended many people in need and mentored young, rising lawyers. His honesty, warmth, and good humor made him friends on both “sides of the aisle” and contributed to his ability to establish compromise and justice. He went into private practice as a criminal defense attorney in 1974, the same year his daughter Sarah was born, and built a successful and respected practice, rooted in a respect for our legal system and a belief that everyone deserves capable representation. Serving clients for over 40 years, he never lost his sense of humor; anyone who entered his law office was greeted by the Shakespearean quote, “The first thing we do, let’s kill all the lawyers!” Michael’s love of sports from his youth continued throughout his life and was channeled into his avid support of the University of Arizona Wildcats. While he enjoyed football, his true loves were men’s basketball and women’s softball. He introduced his daughter, Sarah, to basketball, taking her to see the legendary Wildcats throughout her childhood and turning her into a lifelong fan. Michael was a dedicated and loving father to Sarah, whom he raised with his ex-wife, Janet. Mike and Janet were often sought out as role models for amicable divorce and effective co-parenting. A proud and supportive father, Michael was known to send Sarah roses during major milestones in her life, including the birth of his granddaughter and namesake, Grayson Monacelli. When not working or watching UofA sports or spending time with his daughter, Michael could be found surrounded by friends in Del Mar, Maui, by the pool in his backyard, at Bully’s North, the Plank House, Bob Dobbs, or Shooters, holding court and making everyone smile. Michael’s love, support, and zest for life will be missed dearly. Michael is predeceased by dear brothers, John and Jeff Grayson; and survived by daughter, Sarah Grayson; son-in-law, Fausto Monacelli; granddaughter, Grayson Monacelli; brother and sister-in-law, Conway and Judy Grayson; and countless, cherished and wonderful friends. A celebration of Michael’s life will be held for friends and family on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018. Donations can be made in Michael’s honor to Aphasia Research Project at the University of Arizona (www.uafoundation.org/netcommunity/donations/slhs). Please specify designation: Aphasia Clinic and Research. Information provided by survivors. |
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