Lawrence E. Morrissey, age 78, passed away at home on the morning of January 8, 2015, after a brief, but courageous, battle with an aggressive cancer discovered last fall. He was a loving husband to his wife of 48 years, Kathleen (nee Landreman).

Born July 19, 1936, in Joliet, Illinois, he was raised by his mother after the sudden loss of his father just days before Christmas in 1944. A graduate of St. Raymond Elementary School, Joliet Catholic High School, the University of Illinois and The John Marshall Law School, he worked jobs to pay his tuition the entire way. He served in the Marine Corps. He began his legal career in 1964 as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Illinois and, in 1967, was appointed Chief of the Organized Crime and Racketeering section for the Northern District of Illinois.

In 1969, he received a meritorious service award from United States Attorney General, Ramsey Clark, who credited him with helping disband the Chicago crime syndicate. In 1974, he opened his own practice in downtown Chicago while at the same time working at O`Brien, Garrison, Berard & Kusta, a Joliet law firm that he credited for the development of his civil litigation skills. Although he represented defendants in numerous high profile government probes and scandals, his real passion was providing representation to the less fortunate, often on a pro bono basis. He took great pleasure in helping people from all walks of life.

The devoted father of Dr. Lawrence (Tamara), Charles (Susan) and William (Aleksandra); he cherished his twelve grandchildren, Elizabeth, Sarah, Colin, Charlie, Madeleine, Allie, Teresa, Elliott, Klara, Joshua, Benjamin and Brigita. He is also survived by his sister, Rosemary (David) Ahmann; and many very special nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret (2005) and Charles (1944); and beloved nephew, Mark Ahmann (2005).

Donations to Immaculate Conception Church 1431 North Park Avenue Chicago IL 60610 or St. Raymond Building Fund 604 N. Raynor Ave. Joliet, IL 60435 in Larry's name would be appreciated.