Spring 2020 Gavel 268650 SBAND Gavel Magazine_web | Page 12

Never have I met a more kind, captivating, compassionate, intelligent
gentleman. A true aspiration for us all. – Judge Cherie Clark
n I first met Jerry VandeWalle in 1972, when I had an internship
with the North Dakota Attorney General’s Office. Jerry was
an Assistant Attorney General under Attorney General Helgi
Johanneson, and I had just completed my first year of law
school at the University of North Dakota (UND). Even after
all these years, I still remember Jerry discussing an obscure
aspect of real property law with me over a coffee break at the
Capitol Lunchroom, which helped me understand an article by
UND Prof. Robert Beck. I was impressed by the depth of his
knowledge on the subject, and it helped me in Prof. Beck’s real
property class.
Later, when I worked as a staff attorney for the North Dakota
Legislative Council, I was assigned to the Committee on
Education. Jerry had the portfolio for education from the
Attorney General’s Office, so I got to work with him closely
on various aspects of education law. In that context, Jerry
demonstrated a canny ability to understand the often-
complicated politics involved in education. Jerry was able to
present valuable information to the legislature in a thoroughly
non-partisan manner.
I have always admired Justice VandeWalle’s thorough
preparation, insight into legal issues, and understanding of court
room decorum through the years on the North Dakota Supreme
Court.

– Russell J. Myhre
n I met Jerry VandeWalle sometime during the first week of
January 1973. He was then the senior assistant attorney general in
Attorney General Olson’s office. I was then a law student intern
in Governor Link’s office.
On my first day as an intern, Governor Link advised that my
position description would be “legislative assistant.” When asked
about the responsibilities of a legislative assistant, Governor Link
responded: “Ask Jerry.”
Previously, Assistant Attorney General Jerry VandeWalle
advised Governor Bill Guy about legislative bills to be signed by
the governor. In this age of political polarization, it is difficult
to believe a Dem-NPL governor would routinely seek the
daily advice of an assistant attorney general in the office of a
Republican attorney general (Helgi Johanneson).
Throughout the 1973 Legislative Session, I frequently met with
Jerry VandeWalle, who patiently explained the implications and
historical background of bills that were waiting the governor’s
signature. Jerry was an invaluable mentor and nonpartisan advisor
that first legislative session.
Later, when I transitioned to be the legal advisor of a state agency
(and before his appointment to the Supreme Court), I continued
to seek his advice and counsel. It was always thorough, fair,
nonpartisan, and accurate.
Nearly a half-century has passed since my first legislative session
and my first experiences as a government attorney. He was my
first legal mentor, and I will be eternally grateful for his guidance
and counsel.

– Murray G. Sagsveen
n Jerry VandeWalle is one of my favorite people. No matter where
I have gone for bar functions, once it’s discovered I’m from North
Dakota, his name comes up. All over this country, he is known for
his knowledge, temperament, and many years of service.
A photo memory submitted by North Dakota U.S. Representative
Kelly Armstrong, pictured with Justice VandeWalle.
There are those people who improve your life to know them. Jerry
VandeWalle is one of those people. His accomplishments and
awards are many. He has much to contribute to any conversation
but seems to prefer listening. His attention is always on others;
he knows everyone. The Chief has been a tireless advocate for
justice. He has diplomatically championed the Court’s causes
with the governor, the legislature, and anyone paying attention.
He dreamed of and created a family mediation program that
is the envy of the country. All of this was done quietly, without
fanfare, often giving the credit to others. Jerry, you are an excellent
example to us all. Thank you so much for your devotion to North
Dakota. Best wishes in retirement.

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THE GAVEL
– Darcie M. Einarson