Local attorney, John A. Nitz of the Sterling Heights firm of O'Reilly Rancilio P.C., represented the Robert W. Brear Family on the occasion of the inauguration of the Robert W. Brear Professorship in Neurology at the University of Michigan Medical School on June 23, 2004. At the ceremony, nationally known researcher David J. Fink, M.D. was installed as the first Robert W. Brear Professor of Neurology.
Mr. Nitz spoke of Mr. Brear's desire to make a significant impact by his contribution to the Neurology Department. Mr. Nitz assisted Mr. Brear of Rochester, Michigan in the estate planning that led to the bequest of $4 million to the Department of Neurology at the Medical School. The bequest came as a complete surprise to the Medical School since Mr. Brear had no relationship to the University of Michigan.
"The reclusive Mr. Brear had no family and few friends, but his success in the investment world made it possible for him to make an impact at the University of Michigan Medical School", said Mr. Nitz in remarks delivered during the installation ceremony. It is believed that Mr. Brear left the funds to the Neurology Department because his father had been treated at the Hospital.
