On February 9, 2026, our friend and colleague Ryan Waterman passed away after a short but courageous battle with illness. Ryan was an extraordinary husband and father, a skilled attorney, a trusted advisor, and a steady, grounding presence whose impact on his family, friends, colleagues, clients, and communities across California will be felt for decades to come. He was deeply respected, deeply appreciated, and profoundly loved.

Ryan’s legal practice meant a great deal to him. Even while undergoing treatment, he continued to work full-time, committed to serving his clients and his firm. Ryan often spoke about the “shower test” — that when you wake up in the morning, you should feel excited and grateful to begin your workday. Ryan loved his work and it was a joy to work with him.

Beyond his remarkable professional life, Ryan was defined by his unwavering commitment to giving back. He maintained a robust pro bono practice, served on the firm’s Pro Bono Committee, and was part of the team recognized with the Brownstein 2025 Jeffrey S. Rugg Pro Bono Award for expanding access to justice. He was also recently honored by Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego County with the 2025 Big Champion Award, a testament to his compassion, generosity, and service to his community.

Ryan’s integrity, optimism, and generous spirit shone brightly — even in his final days. We wish to honor his legacy by establishing a scholarship fund for his three children: Ben (19), Luke (15), and Catherine (10).

Thank you for helping us honor Ryan and his beloved wife Julia by supporting their children’s education and continuing the legacy of care, kindness, and service he embodied so fully.

Friends and colleagues of Ryan