Ty Fahner, a towering figure in Illinois’ legal and political spheres, has died at the age of 81.
Ty Fahner's extensive contributions spanned roles as a federal prosecutor, Illinois Attorney General, and chair of Mayer Brown law firm.
Ty Fahner, born Tyrone C. Fahner in Detroit in 1942, took the early steps in a career that would see him become a key figure in Illinois' legal landscape. Fahner’s journey began in Southeast Michigan where, as a teenager, he worked several blue-collar jobs, providing a sturdy, working-class foundation for his later pursuits in law.
Continuing his upward trajectory, Fahner attended the University of Michigan alongside Tom Hayden. Despite the radical movements swirling around him during his college years, Fahner was noted for his conventional demeanor. His legal aspirations took a more defined shape when he earned a Master of Laws from Northwestern University Law School in 1971, setting the stage for his entry into significant legal roles.
Fahner’s legal acumen was further honed at the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Illinois. Here, he was instrumental in leading successful prosecutions against corruption within Chicago's city government, a role that elevated his profile and positioned him for higher office.
Appointed Illinois Attorney General in 1980 by then-Governor Jim Thompson, Fahner took on a role fraught with challenges and opportunities to reform and influence state law enforcement. His tenure was marked by his leadership during the notorious Tylenol poisoning case in 1982, where he formed a task force and managed over a thousand leads. Fahner became the investigation's main spokesperson, an effort that thrust him into the national spotlight.
Despite his rigorous campaign, Fahner lost the 1982 election for Illinois Attorney General to Neil Hartigan. This setback, however, paved the way for his return to Mayer Brown, where he would make significant strides in leading the firm.
Back at Mayer Brown, Fahner assumed roles as co-chair and then chair, overseeing significant expansions and initiatives that fortified the firm’s position in the legal world. His leadership extended beyond the firm as he also provided counsel to notable figures, including former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, a Mayer Brown partner.
Apart from his legal career, Fahner was deeply involved in political and civic activities. He chaired the finance committee of the Illinois Republican Party and the civic committee of the Commercial Club, influencing policy and political strategies behind the scenes.
His contributions to civic life also included a significant tenure as chairman of the board of trustees for the Shedd Aquarium. In 2016, he led a critical search for its CEO, helping to steer the institution towards new leadership.
Fahner's death was announced by Mayer Brown on Tuesday, marking the end of a remarkable career that impacted many facets of Illinois' legal, political, and civic arenas.
The announcement of Fahner’s passing brought an outpouring of tributes, reflecting on his broad impact. Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot expressed her deep sadness and gratitude in a heartfelt statement, recalling Fahner as a foundational figure in her career and a personal friend. “Like many, I am deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Tyrone C. Fahner... My deep love and gratitude for Ty, Ann, and their children will continue to burn bright. I join a chorus in offering my sincere condolences,” stated Lightfoot.
Lightfoot's reflections underscored Fahner's influential role not just in legal circles but as a mentor and supporter of the next generation of leaders. His legacy, characterized by his professional prowess and personal generosity, leaves a lasting imprint on those he worked with and the institutions he shaped.
Ty Fahner’s journey from a blue-collar background to the heights of Illinois’ legal and civic institutions is a testament to his dedication, skill, and commitment to public service, ensuring his memory will endure in the annals of Illinois history.
