News Summary
Samuel “Skip” Keesal Jr., a highly respected securities and maritime lawyer, died at 86, leaving a profound impact on Long Beach and the legal community. Founder of Keesal, Young & Logan, his career spanned decades, representing Fortune 500 companies and showcasing significant courtroom successes. Keesal was also a devoted philanthropist and community leader, known for his dedication to both law and charitable causes. His passing is felt deeply, highlighting his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind.
Long Beach, CA – Samuel “Skip” Keesal Jr., a distinguished securities and maritime lawyer and influential philanthropist, passed away at the age of 86 on Tuesday at his home in Rolling Hills due to cancer. His death has sent shockwaves through the legal community and the city of Long Beach, where he was a pivotal figure.
Keesal was the founder of Keesal, Young & Logan, a law firm he established in 1970 from humble beginnings with only a secretary, two chairs, and a $60 typewriter. Under his leadership, the firm became one of California’s most respected legal practices, employing 150 people across multiple locations including Long Beach, San Francisco, Seattle, Anchorage, and Hong Kong. By the 1990s, Keesal, Young & Logan represented 50 to 75 Fortune 500 companies, including major entities like Unocal, Merrill Lynch, and Toyota. Noteworthy cases Keesal worked on included the Exxon Valdez oil spill and the Cosco Busan incident, showcasing his legal acumen at a national level.
Keesal was a veteran who served six months of active duty in the Army followed by an additional six years in the reserves, where he achieved the rank of platoon sergeant. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business from California State University, Long Beach in 1962 and completed his law degree at the University of Southern California in 1965. His early career achievements and dedication to the law earned him an induction into the International Academy of Trial Lawyers in 1990, a prestigious organization limited to only 500 members worldwide. Additionally, in 2024, he received a Key to the City award from Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson, further solidifying his status as a community leader.
Keesal was known for his preference for jury trials, which contributed significantly to his courtroom success. Colleagues and community members acknowledged his calm demeanor, ability to connect with people from all backgrounds, and a strong emphasis on honest lawyering. Keesal was never officially retired, often expressing a desire to work until the end of his life, underscoring his passion for the profession.
His contributions extended beyond law; Keesal was a dedicated philanthropist who donated approximately $7 million to various causes including the Boys & Girls Club and the YMCA, emphasizing his commitment to community betterment. He frequently hosted charitable events in his 14th-floor dining room overlooking Long Beach Harbor, drawing in notable figures from politics and entertainment, and served on numerous boards for charitable organizations.
Beyond his professional achievements, Keesal is survived by his wife Beth and their four children: Katherine, Carolyn, Steven, and Hope, along with one grandson, Jackson. His passion for life was reflected in his hobbies, such as horseback riding and roping, which stemmed from his upbringing in Oak Park, Illinois and later in Tucson, Arizona, where he developed a love for the cowboy lifestyle.
Keesal was well-regarded by former Long Beach mayors and community leaders, who commended his character, humility, and the significant contributions he made to society. He often credited his firm’s success to his staff and the support of the community, highlighting his modesty despite his numerous accomplishments. His passing marks the loss of a legal icon and a cherished community leader, leaving a legacy that will resonate for years to come.
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- Press Telegram: Skip Keesal, Legendary Long Beach Lawyer and Philanthropist Dies
- Press Telegram: Long Beach Officials & Others Pouring Out Love for Skip Keesal
- Long Beach Post: Skip Keesal Dies
- Lawdragon: Hall of Fame Lawyer Limelight – Skip Keesal
- Daily Journal: Samuel “Skip” Keesal Jr. 1939-2025
- Wikipedia: Skip Keesal
- Google Search: Skip Keesal
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
