Sandpoint owes Lyons great deal of gratitude

The Sandpoint community has suffered a great loss with the passing of Hardy Lyons, a pillar of Sandpoint's legal community. Hardy was a true "throw-back" in the best sense of the word — a small town lawyer whose commitment to integrity was unquestioned.

I had the opportunity in 1979 to work with Hardy and his long-time assistant, Jean Hadley, when he was transitioning from a career in private practice to becoming one of Sandpoint's most esteemed judges. In working though his files, I was truly amazed at how much work he did for various community institutions, including Bonner General Hospital, for virtually no compensation. Hardy was the true "pro bono" lawyer before the term became fashionable.

With the previous passing of Steve Bistline and Jim Hunt, Hardy was one of the last legal giants of the community. His sharp wit, insights and analysis, and commitment to the community will be sorely missed. He was a class act among the legal profession, the likes of which will not be seen any time soon.

Sandpoint owes a great deal of gratitude to Hardy Lyons.

FORD ELSAESSER

Sandpoint