| John
Ryan, Sr. began his Seattle law practice
in 1897 and dedicated himself to
providing outstanding legal services for
a reasonable fee. One hundred years
later, his practice and his principles
continue on in the firm which still
bears his family name: Ryan, Swanson &
Cleveland. John Ryan, Sr. took on his
first partner, Grover Desmond, in 1914,
and, by 1926, he was joined by his son,
John Ryan, Jr. After his father's death,
John Ryan, Jr. took over the firm and
added former Washington Supreme Court
Justice William Askren as a partner.
John Ryan, Jr. served as managing
partner of the firm for 49 years,
until his death in 1982. He was
passionately devoted to his family,
community and profession, and was
known for his warmth and generosity.
During his tenure, Ryan Swanson not
only grew in size and stature, but
in many ways began to reflect his
personality.
John Ryan, Jr. excelled at the
human aspect of the legal profession
and always sought to give his
clients personal attention as well
as sound advice. He also made sure
the lawyers who worked with him
shared his philosophy. His ideals
continue to motivate the firm today.
Ryan, Swanson & Cleveland bears the
names of two other long-time
partners, Ray Swanson and Dick
Cleveland. Ray Swanson and Dick
Cleveland both worked at Ryan
Swanson for nearly 40 years. |
