Obituary
Service Information
Service : Monday, November 23rd at 3:00 pm
Service Location: Private Graveside Service -Shalom Memorial Park
Interment:
Shalom Memorial Park
1700 W. Rand Road
Arlington Heights
Guest Book & Memories
Share your memories and photographs below.
November 21st, 2024
Wow.
My memory of Jeffery would be how we first met and instantly we understood each of humor. Jeffery Granich represented my mother in a protective order case–in the later years he was my attorney for a case. Of course, We won the case–thanks to Jeffery LOL!
Soon later, he knew I was a college student and working for different families as their babysitter. He asked me to babysit his children (Layla & Judah). Amazing kids! Jeffery was an amazing husband and father. Cha is always so sweet and nice. Jeffery told me he was so lucky to have met her.
One thing Jeffery always said to me
“Julie, you are a pistol.”
I will never forget it. I am still the same gal!
You will be so missed Jeffery! Another fun fact we had the exact same birthday!! JANUARY 6!
From heaven above, I know you are the best angel to your family. Thank you for all the memories! Thank you for all the laughs.
Love
Julie Tran
~Julie Tran
~Friend, Chicago,IL
January 11th, 2024
Jeff hired me during my 2L year despite my having no experience and no clue what was going on. I loved working for him. Even to this day, he is still the best boss I’ve ever had. He was hilarious and warm and passionate and such a bright light in my life. I learned the very building blocks that I still stand on today as a lawyer myself from his mentorship. When I need motivation or inspiration before arguing in court, I harken back to things I watched Jeff do, or how he phrased things. I was constantly in awe of his ability to keep fighting the good fight despite how hard that fight was at times. But that’s how he was – the biggest heart and an unending desire to do good. He was also such a unique, quirky character and he entertained me to no end. I think every friend I’ve ever made since I worked for Jeff has heard a Jeff story at this point. I will continue to have him live on in those stories. To Cha and his children, I met you all way back in the day and I’m so very sorry for your loss. You will all forever be in my prayers.
Courtney
~Courtney Corbello
~Former Law Clerk, Cedar Park, TX
September 17th, 2023
Jeff trained me to be a law clerk (years ago). I was going to school while I was his clerk. He would make me participate in study sessions with him while I worked at his office. I was young back then and didn’t know how lucky I was to receive his training at the time. He taught me a lot. He was a very honest and kind man. I would check in with him about every 5 years. We would have a quick chat and bite to eat at Cavannah’s and then I’d be on my way until the next 5 years. Unfortunately, I was a few years too late this time.
One time, he went on vacation and brought back a souvenir which I kept throughout the years.
~Evelyn P.
~Former Law Clerk & Mentee, Chicago, IL
July 28th, 2023
I met Jeffrey in his first year of law, he did a case for my son lost.He appealed & won ,this was in the 90,s. Now in 2023 l am so sad to find he is not with us
~Daniel Pikes
~, Dolton
April 27th, 2023
This Man was god sent to represent my little brother, Jeff was a caring man who took a great liking to my brother. Never sugarcoating anything kept it 100% with my brother and at the end of the day he felt like hell for him and give him his life back. Never got to really say thank you but I know you’re watching over him now you took him on your win in life, and that you have a better view of him, may you continue to rest in peace. And my brother needs you watching over him in the next few days. My sincere condolences to his family, and all he is missed very much.
~Patricia Alonzo
~Client, Chicago il
May 17th, 2022
I just saw this about Jeffery, He was so nice to my family as we were going through a court case. Jeffery would work long hours on our case he cared about his clients. He will truly be missed. I was trying to get in contact with Jeffery that is how I came across this post. My prayers go out to the family – I remember his wife was pregnant with their first child he was so happy. I’m in awe about his passing, this has really shock my family he got to know us all. Jeffery was an awesome person.
~Karon Walker
~Former Client, Chicago, IL
June 26th, 2021
It pains me to just now find out about the loss of such a compassionate jurist! I was a long time client, and occasional conversationalist with Jeff over the phone. I would consider us ‘distant friends’ and I regret not taking up his invitation to stop by when we last spoke. I first met him when he became a father for the first time and remember how passionately he spoke of the event! My heart goes out to his family and I pray that the pain of your loss is speedily replaced with joyful memories!
13 Would that You hide me in the grave, that You would keep me secret, until Your wrath has subsided; give me a set time and remember me.
14 If a man dies, will he live? All the days of my lifespan, I will hope, until the coming of my passing.
15 Call and I will answer You; You desire the work of Your hands.
~Reg Redmond
~Client/Friend, Chicago, Illinois
January 5th, 2021
Jeffrey tried to talk me out of going to law school when I first met him in 2004. When that didn’t work, he became my champion and coach, keeping my spirits up in school and studying for the bar, letting me second chair trials and generally reassuring me that I would survive. His lawyering was an inspiration – energetic and focused on justice. He always maintained levity, though, and a sense of humor. He was an extraordinary man I feel lucky to know. My heart breaks for his family, whom he adored, and I send them so much love.
~Rachel Koch
~friend and colleague, Chicago IL
December 28th, 2020
Dick and I worked together at IU Press beginning in 1972. During that time, he had at least six cars to my one. I remember Ruth, his kids, and the Afghan dogs they groomed. I just heard this news about Dick’s death and Jeff’s. This seems so tragic to me. To the family, love and strength to you. Kathy
~Kathleen Ketterman
~friend & colleague, NC
November 28th, 2020
I am so saddened to hear about Jeff’s death. He gave me my first job out of college. Witnessing him at work in the office with his clients and fighting for them in the courtroom was awe-inspiring. I am so thankful to have met Jeff, had the opportunity to learn from him and be friends with him. I will miss you dearly my friend. Sending all my love and prayers to Cha, and the kids.
Atiya
~Atiya Khan
~Friend, Washington, DC
November 27th, 2020
I’ll never forget his funny and caring nature. I’ll be forever grateful for that he’s done for my family. May he rest in eternal peace. Amen
~Christina Garza
~Client, Oak lawn
November 27th, 2020
I met Jeff when i was 18 years old as teenagers now I’m 41 and since then he’s been my friend and my lawyer , one of the greatest people i ever met i true fighter i must say , I’m not going to lie I’ve caught a lot of cases in my lifetime and that’s how i spent most of time with Jeff coming in his office he screams at me you in trouble again i shake my head yes feeling bad but at the same time feeling happy just to be around him too talk to him learn different things I’m going to really miss you Jeff and my god bless your family love you
~Marlon vonmoore
~Friend, Chicago, Illinois
November 27th, 2020
Jeff Granich had funny bones which, combined with his patience and sensitivity, made him irresistible. Although we only met sporadically, we consider him an old and very dear friend. The world will be a sadder place without him. Our sincere condolences to his family. Angie & Ofer Margolin
~Angie & Ofer
~Friend, uk
November 27th, 2020
Dear Jeff,
30 years ago (!) you cold-called me off a list. I was a recent CWRU law school alum and a practically brand new public defender in juvenile delinquency. You were passionate and driven to do the job of a criminal defense attorney and you volunteered as my law clerk at the PD’s office. You gave your time and energy and in return you received no salary, no school credit, not even your own desk. You said that was ok because you were interested in the raw experience and wanted to learn. We all could immediately see you had what it would take to do the job well. Not surprisingly you went on to an illustrious (paying-yay!) career in criminal defense and civil rights. Smart, passionate, kind and fun, your light continues to shine in our collective memory while we continue to miss you.
My warmest condolences to your family and friends. We’ve lost you far too soon. 🌸
~Kathryn Lisco
~Friend and fellow criminal defense attorney, Chicago,Illinois
November 25th, 2020
Jeff I’ll never forget you your wisdom your sense of humor your kindness your friendship there’s not so many people left in the world that was like you I will appreciate you forever brother
~Joey S
~Friend, Chicago
November 23rd, 2020
My first job as a lawyer was with Jeff. I learned how to be a lawyer from Jeff and Jeff was a great lawyer. His clients loved him. Jeff was also my friend. He was one of a kind, as everyone knows. A singular, dynamic, unforgettable soul. I’m very grateful to have had Jeff in my life. I wish I had had more time with him and wish I had been able to express to him how much he meant to me, how important he was to my life.
My heart breaks for Cha, Lyla, and Judah, his beautiful family, for whom he lived. I wish they had more time to love each other.
Rest in Peace Dear Jeffrey.
~Katie Van Lake
~Friend, Columbus
November 23rd, 2020
Jeff, he was always kind and sweet to our family. He and Cha had great sweet parties for the children and family. Big hearted and great advocate for justice. Truly so sorry for your loss and condolences Cha, Lyla, Judah and family.
With love.
Stella Yoon and Phillip Faymonville
~Stella and Phillip
~Cousin in law, Blue Island
November 23rd, 2020
I was a sole practitioner downtown and a young man I never met before came knocking on my law office suite door. The man was in his twenties but looked like a teenager. I asked him why he was here and he told me he just graduated from law school and was looking for a job. I said, somewhat puzzled, looking door to door for a job as a lawyer? He said yes. We talked for an hour or so and I got who he was…daring, committed and persuasive. I wasn’t looking for an associate but my gut and heart told me it didn’t matter, hire him. So I did. We worked together for several years until he went out on his own, which I knew from the start that he would. And we were always much more than attorney/associate. We worked together, had fun together, went to Israel together. We were close friends. Jeff was like a son to me before I had my own. I’m so proud of what you created in this world since that day.
Love you always, Elliot Zinger
~Elliot Zinger
~Friend and former business associate, Chicago, IL
November 23rd, 2020
I have known Jeff since he is 18 years old. We worked together in the US and in Israel. We laughed and cried together. He was one of the true spirits I had the joy to know in this world. What a great story teller and what a special and unique human being.
He cared so so much about everything.
My heart goes out all his loved ones. He was way to young. I will miss you forever
Mark
~Mark
~Friend, Bristol UK
November 23rd, 2020
I am so sorry to hear of Jeffrey’s passing. My most heartfelt condolences to Jeffrey’s family at this difficult time. Jeffrey always had a smile, a kind word and a funny story for his colleagues. He was a true gentleman and an excellent lawyer. He will be missed. Rest In Peace, Jeffrey
~Catharine O’Daniel
~Friend and Colleague, Chicago, IL
November 23rd, 2020
Jeff before his big shot lawyer days. More hair, same attitude.
~Dan
~, NY, NY
November 23rd, 2020
So many great memories. You lived life on your terms and I loved sharing that ride for 30+ years. You’ll be sorely missed brother.
~Dan
~, NY, NY
November 23rd, 2020
We started as colleagues, adversaries, 20 years ago but quickly became friends. He was one of the rare ones – no matter the mood, We could be real & he could bring levity; but most importantly, I deeply trusted every word & gesture he uttered. I’m so sad the world has lost him.
~MarcelleLeCompte
~Friend, Chicago,IL
November 22nd, 2020
This photo is from the last case Jeff and I tried together. There will never be another voice like his in my life. He was a hero to many who had no one else to speak for them, and a friend I will miss terribly.
~Torri Hamilton
~Friend, Chicago, IL
November 22nd, 2020
Cha:
We’re so sorry. Absolutely heartbreaking.
Danny
~Dan Kirschner
~, Chicago
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