Ronald Meshbesher

May 18, 1933 - June 13, 2018
Acclaimed Minnesota criminal defense attorney passed away Wednesday, June 13, 2018 with his loving wife of 30 years by his side. Ron succumbed to a long battle with Alzheimer’s, a devastating disease, seeded in a man worthy of ultimate dignity and grace. 
Ron retired from law in early 2014 after a successful career spanning 57 years.  He was widely known for his expertise in handling notable cases throughout Minnesota. Ron was president of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) in the mid-1980s and was an iconic member of the American Board of Criminal Lawyers (ABCL). A national advocate for the constitutional rights of all Americans. Respected and beloved by the judiciary, government prosecutors, and the hundreds of defense lawyers he served with and mentored. A legendary defender that will live inside of many of us forever. 
In addition to Ron’s passion for law, he enjoyed international travels with Kim to many beautiful world destinations. Ron and Kim enjoyed their last cruise to South America in 2014, a shooting trip to Scotland, sailing the Mediterranean, travels to Russia, Asia, Europe, and South Africa.  But one of the most moving trips Ron and Kim experienced was to Auschwitz. Ron’s travels always included great intellectual exchanges about world affairs that were always welcomed by the diverse cultural friendships they made.
Since 2002, Ron and Kim loved their home and life in Villefranche-sur-mer, France. This opened  up a whole new world of international friendships. Because Ron’s legal accolades did not follow him to France, the joke always was that Ron was known as Kim’s husband by all the locals in their village.  Ron loved it because he was proud and his ego never got in the way. These friends became some of their dearest and closest friendships. 
Ron and Kim also shared the love of theater and ballet.  At a London South Pacific performance, Kim recalls during the intermission Ron belted out "Some Enchanted Evening"; but of course he had changed the lyrics to “Sam and Janet Evening”.  They were longtime Guthrie Theater patrons.  Every winter in France they attended the Monte Carlo Ballet.  Ron was an avid supporter of community benefits and fundraising efforts for various community projects. 
Any that had the fortune to know him, appreciate the simple truth that he was the most humble, kindest man across all the paths he walked. A loyal friend. Most importantly always a loving husband, father and grandfather. Three year old grandson Anton said: “Gaga, do you think if we turn on the lights in Papa’s library he will come back home?”  Ron will be forever missed.
Ron is preceded in death by his parents, Nate and Esther Meshbesher; brother, Buddy Meshbesher; sister, Shirlee Meshbesher Clein. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Kim Meshbesher; daughter, Jolie (Eric) Meshbesher Hassler and their children, Archer “The Lil’ Miss”, Anton Ronald, and Dante Richard; daughters, Betsy Meshbesher, Wendy Meshbesher, and Stacy Meshbesher; brother, Ken Meshbesher; and many other loving nieces and nephews. 
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Ronald Petersen at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota and to the staffs at Deephaven Woods and Fairview Hospice for all of their tender care given to Ron during these final 15 months.. 
A Memorial Service to honor Ron’s life will be held at 2:00 PM, Thursday, June 28, 2018 at the Lafayette Club, 2800 Northview Road, Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota 55361. Guests may arrive at 1 PM for visitation. 
In place of flowers, the family would prefer memorials in memory of Ron to be given to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090, www.alz.org, 1-800-272-3900. 
 

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