Sad News: Minnesota Prominent lawyer is Dead

For many years, William McGrann played a pivotal role as a prominent attorney and lobbyist, leaving an indelible mark on the Minneapolis entertainment landscape. His influence extended from major projects like the Metrodome to the Guthrie Theater, Minneapolis Convention Center, and Target Field. McGrann, 86, passed away on January 19 due to complications from dementia at his family’s cabin near Lake Superior in Schroeder, south of Tofte.

Despite his illness, McGrann spent his final two years at the cabin with his corgi Ava and his son, Patrick, acting as his caregiver. A devoted sports enthusiast, he found joy in watching the Minnesota Twins, the Vikings, and the Gophers during this time. McGrann and his wife, Judith, who shared nearly 60 years of marriage, raised their three children in Minneapolis. Judith McGrann, the former owner of Judith McGrann and Friends, a vibrant clothing store in Minneapolis and St. Louis Park, operated the business until 2017.

As a founding partner of the McGrann Shea Carnival Straughn & Lamb law firm, McGrann played a significant role in Minneapolis City Hall and the State Capitol for many years. Despite being a powerful figure, McGrann was known for his friendly and slightly mischievous demeanor. His law partner, Doug Carnival, described him as a captivating personality that people naturally wanted to follow. Lester Bagley, Vice President of the Minnesota Vikings, expressed admiration for McGrann’s intelligence, connections, and high regard within the community.

Born on October 23, 1937, in St. Cloud, McGrann grew up in Owatonna and later attended St. John’s University. He served in the military, completing infantry and Army Ranger training, followed by counterintelligence instruction. After law school at the University of Minnesota, McGrann worked in Washington, D.C., with roles at the National Security Agency and as a special representative of the secretary of defense in Vietnam.

Returning from Vietnam, he worked at the U.S. Capitol and served as a special assistant to Senator Hubert H. Humphrey. McGrann formed lifelong friendships, such as with Tom and Margit Berg, during his time at the University of Minnesota. These friendships included memorable trips to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, with the group humorously calling themselves the “Toilet Troupe.”

McGrann is survived by his wife Judith, sons Patrick and Chris, daughter Meghan McGrann, and five grandchildren. A celebration of life is scheduled for May 22, where the family plans to emphasize levity and celebrate McGrann’s life with the sentiment he often expressed: “Good show.”