John Randolph Axe, a prominent municipal law and public finance attorney in Michigan for decades, died recently after a battle with cancer.
He was 87.
Born on April 30, 1938, in Grand Rapids, John was a beacon of knowledge and expertise who left an indelible mark on the legal profession and those who had the good fortune to know him.
John studied political science at the University of Michigan, earning a bachelor of arts degree in 1960 before continuing his education at Harvard Law School, where he graduated in 1963.
His passion for law and governance was evident in his long and illustrious career, which spanned six decades.
Throughout his career, John was revered as a well-respected expert in municipal law. His contributions were pivotal in enacting laws and practices that continue to guide the field to this day.
Beyond his professional achievements as a partner at the Kirk Huth law firm, John was a family man.
Survivors include: his beloved wife, Linda S. Axe; his daughter, Cathie Axe (Chris); son, Peter Axe; daughter, Meredith Shanle (John); daughter, Sara Axe Lucas (Steve); son, Jay Axe; grandsons, Brady Shanle and Sawyer Lucas; stepson, Gregory Stroh (Christine); stepdaughter, Suzanne Berger-Stroh (Amy); and step-grandchildren, Phillippa Berger-Stroh and Charlotte Stroh.
John's Christian faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and providing comfort through the trials and triumphs he encountered.
Those who knew John appreciated his intelligence, passion, and analytical mind. A voracious reader, John's love for history was evident in his extensive collection of books.
He was also an avid collector of maps, whirligigs, antiques, war posters and sports ephemera. Each piece in his collection had a story, and John was always eager to share it with others, bringing history to life with his vivid storytelling. John was proud to serve on the Board and Executive Committee of the University of Michigan Clements Library.
He was a longtime member of the Commanderie de Bordeaux, sharing his passion for fine wine.
As we remember John Randolph Axe, we reflect on a life that was rich in knowledge, love, and service.
His legacy will live on not only in the legal frameworks he helped shape, but also in the hearts of those who knew him. John's life reminds us of the impact one individual can have on the world, and he will be deeply missed.
Services will be held on Thursday, March 12 at 10 a.m. at St. Paul on the Lake Catholic Church in Grosse Pointe Farms. A luncheon will follow at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club.
