JOHN ROSSI
1939 – 2024
IN MEMORIAM
John Joseph Rossi, aged 85, lived a rich and impactful life. Born and raised in North Denver, John graduated from Mount Carmel High School. He furthered his education at the Colorado School of Mines, where he not only earned a degree in petroleum engineering but also played football, highlighting his early passion for both academics and sports. After marrying Mary Lee in 1962, John moved to Houston to work for an oil company. Following the suggestion of his boss, he pursued law school, eventually co-founding his own law firm in 1966 alongside his classmate James Morrisard. Their practice specialized in workman’s compensation issues for railroad employees, leading John to become a nationally recognized FELA attorney known for advocating the rights of injured railroad workers. Beyond his professional achievements, John was an avid outdoorsman with a love for hunting, fishing, and animals. He also had a passion for travel, having visited all seven continents during his lifetime. John believed in giving back to his community and supported numerous organizations throughout his life. He established scholarships at institutions like the Colorado School of Mines and DU Law School and was involved in the founding of Our Lady of Loreto. John is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary Lee, and their children Sherri, Doug, and Vince, along with 10 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. His legacy includes not only his professional achievements but also his commitment to family, community, and philanthropy. John Joseph Rossi’s life story is a testament to dedication, passion, and a profound commitment to making a positive impact both professionally and personally.
Tributes from the legal world, the railroad community and beyond:
- All, the ARLA community lost one of its earliest and most highly regarded members today. John passed quickly and peacefully with his family around him. Those of us who were privileged to know John and watch him relate so warmly and caringly with everyone he encountered can take that memory and use it to inspire us. What better way to honor him. He was a tenacious trial lawyer who deservedly earned the respect of railroad lawyers and judges across the west. We are all better in what we do for John’s having led the way. Our collective thoughts and prayers go out to Marylee, Sherry, Doug, and Vince and all John and Marylee’s grandkids. – Jim Cox
- John Rossi was the sort of lawyer and human we should all aspire to be. A gentleman always. And yet also always as tough as his clients needed him to be to protect all their rights. And as far as ARLA goes, he was an ARLA stalwart with Marylee at his side, presenting the type image and effort that the organization needed, especially in the earlier days. Cyndy and my deepest condolences to Marylee, Doug and the rest of the family. May he RIP. – Ed Pfiester
- I would like to echo the sentiment of everyone about our friend John Rossi. John was a true gentleman. He was President of ARLA when I was a new ARLA member (a very long time ago) and he signed my Certificate of Membership. I am, and will, be constantly reminded of the support he provided me, and all of us, through the years as long as my Certificate hangs on my wall. Thank you John. With the fondest of memories. – Chip Rabb
- You had a wonderful partner and mentor. He was a true gentlemen, always treated everyone with respect. Was one of the first to join us in support of forming ARLA. Kind and gentle man married to a wonderful lady. I can recall how excited she was when the Pope came to Denver and she was involved in many of the events. Prayers to her and the family. – Weldon Granger
- The perfect gentleman. RIP – Anthony Petru
- I am heart-broken over the news of one of our great mentors, John Rossi, passing away. I recall John fondly and he will be missed. – Howard Spier
- John Rossi was truly a class act and a role model that will be missed especially by all of us in ARLA. – Ben Saunders