Judge Robert A. Behrman, formerly chief judge for Weld Countys 19th judicial district, passed away July 16, 2015, in Denver. He was 93. Rabbi Sara Gilbert officiated at the July 19 graveside service at Mt. Nebo Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
He was a lifetime member of Beth Israel in Greeley.
”The lawyers who came before Judge Behrman were privileged,” according to the Greeley Tribune. ”He was smart — insightfully comprehending the legal issues before him.
“He was known for his fairness, compassion and willingness to create innovative programs to make a difference in young peoples lives. Serious, he used humor to bring enjoyment to the task at hand . . .
”His love and respect for his work allowed him to handle the pressures of the bench with confidence, grace and charm.”
Robert Behrman was born Jan. 5, 1922, in Casper, Wyo., to Charles and Cecilia Behrman. He moved with his parents to Greeley, where his parents operated Behrmans Ladies Ready-to-Wear store.
During and after WW II, he served as a military intelligence officer in China and Japan, and became fluent in Mandarin and Japanese.
He earned his undergraduate degree at Yale University and received his LLD from Harvard Law School in 1950.
After Harvard, Judge Behrman opened a solo practice above his parents store in Greeley.
He served as a part-time deputy district attorney in the early 1950s, before there was a full-time DA in Weld County.
Judge Behrman was appointed district court judge in the late 1960s and was later appointed chief judge for the 19th judicial district in Weld County.
He also was the Division 1 Water Judge from 1978 until his retirement in 1993.
After his retirement, Judge Behrman enjoyed the Colorado Symphony, Santa Fe Opera and traveling extensively.
Judge Behrman belonged to the Weld County Bar, Colorado Bar and American Bar Associations, and the prestigious American Law Institute.
Contributions may be made to the Beth Israel Congregation, PO Box 867, Greeley, CO 80623; or the Weld County Bar Assn., PO Box 1029, Greeley, 80632.
Copyright © 2015 by the Intermountain Jewish News
