Before the California Supreme Court commenced its first oral argument session of 2025, a tribute was held for former Justice Edward A. Panelli, who passed away in July at the age of 92.
Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero acknowledged Justice Panelli's service on the court from 1985 to 1994, noting his "great honor and integrity." She remarked on his dedication to justice and fairness, which earned him respect within the legal community.
The program included reflections from retired California Supreme Court Justice Kathryn Werdegar, David Miller, a Supreme Court attorney who clerked for Justice Panelli, and Lisa Kloppenberg, dean emerita and professor at Santa Clara University School of Law.
Justice Werdegar described Panelli as an "intellect and a scholar," highlighting his academic achievements. She emphasized his practical approach to law that reflected "a sense of the real world and people who live and work there—their humanity."
Miller recalled Panelli’s skill in quickly addressing legal issues, likening it to “a match of lightning chess.”
Professor Kloppenberg spoke about Panelli’s background as the child of Italian immigrant farmworkers. His early life experiences in Santa Clara County motivated him to support scholarships and mentorships for low-income and first-generation students pursuing careers in law.
"Justice Panelli was a light for others," Kloppenberg stated. She praised his contributions to helping students achieve their educational aspirations and build careers that enable them to pursue their own American dreams.