(Chicago – February 24, 2025) – Banner Witcoff remembers our friend and respected colleague, Sheldon Witcoff, who passed away on February 21, 2025. Sheldon was a named former shareholder of Banner Witcoff, which he joined 70 years ago.
A pioneer in the field of patent law, he worked extensively on international patent litigation and prosecution matters, and was recognized for his experience by testifying as an expert on U.S. patent law. He also lectured on intellectual property issues at Northwestern University School of Law and Chicago Kent College of Law.
He grew up in Washington, D.C., and joined the Navy at 17, where he learned to operate, troubleshoot, and repair the Navy’s most advanced radar systems during WW II. He then earned his B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Maryland and his J.D. from George Washington University while working for the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. As a patent examiner, he examined what is considered to be the first patent application on electronic computers.
Sheldon joined Banner Witcoff as its 8th lawyer in 1955, and in 1970, his name was added to the letterhead when the firm became Allegretti, Newitt, Witcoff & McAndrews. Sheldon’s legacy will continue in our firm name and our work for his former clients.
Sheldon and his late wife, Margot, raised four children in the Chicago suburbs, and he cherished his role as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Services will be held on Wednesday, February 26 at 9:30AM at Westlawn Cemetery Mausoleum, 7801 W Montrose Ave, Norridge.
In memory of Sheldon Witcoff, please consider donating to one of the following organizations:
Posted: February 24, 2025
