Alexander P. Misheff, a dean of the Trust Administration Bar of Chicago, passed away suddenly Aug. 5 at age 78.

His life was an example of American bootstrap mobility, born to immigrant parents from eastern Europe during the depression, growing up in the small town of Red Wing, Minn., and graduating from Harvard College and Harvard Law School. After serving in the Army, he began his legal career in Chicago in the trust department of Continental Bank, eventually advancing to head the department.

When Continental sold its trust business, he established a private law practice, which he continued until shortly before his death. A significant contributor to his profession, he spent many years on bar association committees, chairing the Chicago Bar Association Trust Committee, writing articles for professional publications and representing the American Bankers Association in drafting a Uniform State Law proposal on Fiduciary Principles of Trusts.

Reflecting his efforts to promote prudence and stem the erosion of traditional trust principles, he continually opposed efforts by state legislatures in recent years to encourage trust departments "to mend their stodgy ways and invest more in the stock market." He also criticized proposals to change the traditional rules of trust accounting.

Misheff's blend of skill, prudence and ethics exemplified the highest standards and values of his profession. Lyman Welch of Sidley and Austin LLP described him as a leader in the development of new trust law, and a lawyer well-respected for his knowledge. He was hired by the American Bar Association Trust Division to advise them on trust law.

He testified numerous times in Springfield and was an important contributor to trust law both in Illinois and the rest of the United States. Outside of his work, Alex traveled widely with his friend and deceased partner, Smith V. Brand, a professor of theater at South Suburban College. They were opera, symphony and stage enthusiasts, patronizing many local productions. He has no survivors, but his friends and longtime neighbors will greatly miss his friendship and charm.

There will be no funeral services. Donations should be made to the Smith V. Brand Scholarship Fund at South Suburban College, Attn. Patrick Rush, 15800 South State St., South Holland, Ill., 60473.