A few days ago we heard the sad news that Browning Marean of DLA Piper had passed away.
Browning Marean was a true international eDiscovery ambassador. The contribution he made to eDiscovery touched so many throughout the world. He travelled the world over conveying positive eDiscovery messages. Wherever in the world any legal technology event or eDiscovery event was – so was Browning.
When it came to presenting on eDiscovery – there was none better than Browning. Browning communicated in his own way – the content was always knowledgeable, but importantly he delivered it in a humorous way that was never over bearing. His messages were always positive and highlighted how there are more efficient and effective ways to manage information in today’s digital paradigm. His presentations were able to cross the divide between lawyers and technology, bringing together lawyers, technologists and importantly members of the judiciary to understand the eDiscovery process and the world we are now all confronted with.
Like so many others, I was fortunate to have met and spent time with Browning on a number of occasions at events all around the globe.
Browning made a number of trips to Australia over recent years. One of my fondest memories was at a Chilli IQ eDiscovery event in Sydney back in 2012. Browning was just so open to spend time discussing trends and insights in the industry. He had an in-depth knowledge and appreciation of rules and practices from all over the world. Over recent years I have been fortunate as Browning helped me out by making a number of introductions to other eDiscovery people in the industry.
When we came to selecting our international keynote speakers for the New Zealand eDiscovery Conference, there was one speaker at the top of our list. Unfortunately though, due to his illness Browning had to withdraw from the speaking role. With the news of Browning’s condition improving in recent months, we hoped he would be able to join us in 2015 – unfortunately it was not to be.
Over recent days it has been heart-warming to look at the fitting tributes that have been paid to Browning. I encourage everyone to have a look at some of the tributes below, as they illustrate the contribution that Browning has made to so many people over a number of years.
- Craig Ball – Browning Marean 1943-2014
- Chris Dale – Goodbye old friend: farewell to Browning Marean
- Ralph Losey – Browning Marean the Life and Death of a Great Lawyer
- Tom O’Connor – Browning Marean: A Remembrance
- Monica Bay – Browning Marean Loses Battle With Cancer
- Joshua Gilliland – Remembering Browning Marean
The reflection by Chris Dale in his tribute probably sums it up to me (from a quote from Judge Peck) – “Everyone just calls him by his first name. Like Madonna”. It was always simply Browning.
Browning will be missed by many, from all over the world.
