A Tree Grows ... in Sacramento

By Heather Cline Hoganson

On May 10, 2006, the Court of Appeal held an “In Memoriam” session for former Presiding Justice Robert K. Puglia, a little over one year after his untimely death from cancer. This was the first time the court has held a memorial session, but Presiding Justice Arthur Scotland remarked that Bob Puglia had always been a catalyst for change.

Justice Sims treated those present to some margin notes Justice Puglia had written over the years, both insightful and witty. Other colleagues described Puglia’s humanity, his compassion, his memory for and ability to describe the smallest details, and his avid devotion to sports, especially where the State of Ohio was concerned.

Following the formal appellate session, the court adjourned outside to the area near 10th Street. A buckeye tree was planted in Justice Puglia’s memory outside of the Presiding Justice’s chambers at the Court of Appeal. As Justice Blease remarked, “Bring me trees to match my men.”

Photos by Heatherr Cline Hoganson

July / August 2006