“If you are healthy in body and mind, self-confident, honest, willing to work, and thoughtful of others, I believe you will be happy in your life- no matter where you go or what you do.” 

John D. Gould

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of Merchant & Gould’s founders, John D. Gould, on May 13, 2015.  John was a colleague, mentor and faithful friend.

In a career that spanned 60 years, John was a very special person who played a significant role in the Firm’s history and development. He had passion for the law, profound advocacy for clients and an unmistakable dedication to the firm.  He exhibited unwavering integrity, provided unparalleled legal advice and was fiercely loyal to our clients and colleagues.

Brian Batzli, Managing Partner of the firm, said “We are deeply saddened at this loss. John immediately became part of the fabric of this firm when he first joined in 1954. John blended superior technical knowledge with legal ability, writing skill and a deep understanding of human nature. He was a first class trial lawyer. During the 60 years that followed, he was a guiding star by which we could all navigate.”

John had a remarkable legal mind that he loved sharing with young attorneys as he mentored and trained them. The lasting, personal impression he made on them in developing their legal skills, quality work habits and positive styles of relation to co-workers, clients and adversaries has exemplified their legal professions to this day.

Terry Qualey former partner at Merchant & Gould, said “John ranks among the finest gentlemen I have known.  I worked with him on litigation while I was at 3M and on legal opinions at M&G, and he was always willing to help me and to just talk.  He had high moral and ethical standards; he was a great lawyer and a great family man.  I always enjoyed his company and I will miss him.”

John was recognized as a leader in intellectual property litigation, both within the firm and at state and national levels. His extraordinary professionalism and tireless work ethic is a primary reason Merchant & Gould has grown from being one of the first patent firms in Minnesota, to a nationally recognized leader in intellectual property law.

Doug Strawbridge, President & General Counsel of Anchor, said “John was a great lawyer, a great partner, a great gentleman, and a great friend and mentor.  He was the epitome of the wise and thoughtful counsellor and vigorous, ethical advocate for his clients.  In his humble way, John was also a true force for good in our community, especially in connection with his long stewardship of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Edina and his long participation in Minneapolis Rotary.  He was devoted to his beloved wife Mary and their large family.  It is hard to imagine a better man than John, and his passing leaves a large hole to fill.”

We are fortunate to have known John and better for having had his guidance and wisdom. We are proud to have his name represent our firm, and to remind us of the inspiration he will continue to provide.

The Hennepin County Bar Association will honor John Gould in the 2016 Bar Memorial, scheduled for May 4, 2016 at 9 a.m. at Thrivent Financial Auditorium in Minneapolis.