Philip B. Byrne

Byrne, Philip B.

Age 79, of St. Paul, passed away Oct. 26. Preceded in death by brother Donald Jr., (Pam Neill); son-in-law, Greg Fitzpatrick; and the love of his life, Mary Lou Byrne (d. March 2, 2010). Phil will be greatly missed by his daughters: Nora Byrne Fitzpatrick (John Thuente), Margaret Byrne, Betty Byrne (Chase Turner), Lucy Aquilano (Don), Katie Reeder (David), and Eileen Swartout (Jim), 19 grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A graduate of St. Mary’s College (Winona, MN) and Notre Dame law school, he worked for Vice President Walter Mondale in the US Senate, drafting landmark civil rights and fair housing legislation. Served as Executive Director of Alaska Legal Services providing legal services to and advocating for the rights of indigent people state-wide as well as litigating reforms to alleviate poverty and discriminatory conditions for native Alaskans. He served the City of St. Paul in the city attorney’s office for more than 27 years including twice as deputy city attorney. Since his retirement in 2000, he was an active volunteer for Hubbs Center where he was fondly known by his many students as “Dr. Phil”. Dedicated volunteer at Habitat for Humanity, Bridging, the American Red Cross, St. Mary’s Health Clinics, and St. Joan of Arc church choir. He was grateful for all the many blessings in his life, but first and foremost, Mary Lou and their family.

Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, November 24 at St. Joan of Arc Church, 4537 3rd Ave. S., Minneapolis at 11 a.m. Visitation at O’Halloran & Murphy, St. Paul on Friday, November 23 from 4 pm to 8 pm and 1 hour prior to Mass at St. Joan.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to St. Mary’s Health Clinics, Catholic Charities, St. Joan Outreach Fund, Bridging, and Our Lady of Peace hospice.

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