Donald G. Leavitt, 1924-2008
Senniger Powers mourns long time-partner Donald G. Leavitt, who passed away December 31, 2008. He was 84.
Don’s consistently friendly and open manner made him a favorite of clients, business partners, and employees, and left a warm and indelible impression on all who knew him. A great believer in education, and a former high school chemistry teacher, Don was always unselfish in sharing his time and experience mentoring young attorneys. Don was a highly respected attorney and a great family man. Mike Godar recalls "I will always remember Don and his wife Sarah as a loving couple that could brighten up a room with their stories and laughter. Certainly, the firm would not be where it is today without Don’s contributions and leadership.”
Don joined the firm in 1951 upon graduation from University of Michigan Law School. He received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Marquette University and a master’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Illinois. While at Senniger Powers he specialized in chemical and pharmaceutical patents. He taught patent law for 37 years as an adjunct professor at St. Louis University School of Law.
Don served on the board of the White House Retreat, where he attended more than 50 retreats, and was a lector at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. He also served on the board of St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf, which held a special place in his heart because both of his parents were deaf. He was an avid golfer and had two holes-in-one: one at Greenbriar Hills and one at Westwood.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph’s Institute for the Deaf, 1809 Clarkson Road, Chesterfield, MO 63017, or the White House Retreat, 7400 Christopher Drive, St. Louis, MO 63129.