Columbus CEO editor, Bricker colleagues give heartfelt tribute to Tunnell’s legacy

A month after the unexpected death of Bricker’s former Managing Partner Kurt Tunnell, the central Ohio community continues to mourn and remember a man whose legacy truly outlives him. In her touching tribute, titled “Kurt Tunnell’s legacy lives in people,” Columbus CEO Editor Katy Smith reflects on both Kurt’s professional success as well as the impact he had on the people around him. Describing Kurt’s “magical way of making everyone feeling special,” Smith uses words including “integrity,” “compassion,” “selflessness” and “humility” to describe the characteristics that fueled his passion for people and his drive to invest in those around him.

Smith’s tribute also highlights several quotes from Bricker colleagues, including current Managing Partner Jim Flynn, honoring the unique impact he made on the firm and its employees. “He was relentless in trying to seek out the details of your life and connect with you personally,” one employee said.

From his tenure at Bricker to his counsel to various public officials, to his involvement in a Malawi farm development, Kurt is being remembered most as a “champion of people.”