Law Practice
Jul. 27, 2002
Firm Co-Founder Is Remembered for Honesty
LOS ANGELES - Eldon V. McPharlin, the co-founder of a Los Angeles surety and construction law firm and avid golfer, has died. He was 82. McPharlin died of Parkinson's disease at Rancho Mirage Health Center on July 8.
Eldon V. McPharlin 1910-2002
McPharlin died of Parkinson's disease at Rancho Mirage Health Center on July 8.
Born on June 16, 1910, in O'Neill, Neb., he attended the University of Iowa for his bachelor's degree, according to his wife of 60 years, Margaret McPharlin.
He graduated from the University of Iowa College of Law in 1937 and was admitted to the California Bar one year later.
Immediately after his admission in 1938, McPharlin went to work as a lawyer with Travelers Insurance Co. in Los Angeles.
His work was interrupted by his service in the U.S. Army in 1941. Margaret McPharlin said he returned home in 1945.
"He came home and didn't have a job," she said.
In 1947, McPharlin teamed up with colleagues Newton E. Anderson and William J. Conners to found a surety bond litigation firm in Los Angeles, according to the firm's office manager, Rick Freedman.
The firm, Anderson, McPharlin & Conners has 30 associates and offices in Los Angeles and Riverside.
"Mac was loyal to his colleagues and well-known for his total honesty," managing partner David DiBiase said.
McPharlin was known as "Mac" to his friends, DiBiase said.
He retired in 1979 and moved to Rancho Mirage, where he and his wife lived for 23 years.
"We golfed and traveled a lot," Margaret McPharlin said.
Eight years ago, McPharlin suffered from macular degeneration, which left him legally blind, his wife said. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's during that time.
In addition to his wife, McPharlin is survived by his son, Thomas P. McPharlin of Palo Alto, and daughter, Mary Ann McPharlin of Pasadena. He also is survived by two grandchildren.
Private services took place with a special Mass at Sacred Heart Church in Palm Desert.
Sandra Corrales
For reprint rights or to order a copy of your photo:
Email
Jeremy_Ellis@dailyjournal.com
for prices.
Direct dial: 213-229-5424
Send a letter to the editor:
Email: letters@dailyjournal.com