The Kresge Foundation sends is deepest condolences to the family and friends of Alan Schwartz, who passed away Thursday. Schwartz, 97, served as a member and chair of Kresge’s Investment Committee for many years, and his expert oversight of the foundation’s resources ensured they would benefit as many people and communities as possible.

Founder of Honigman LLP law firm, Schwartz was a legal giant who was also synonymous with service to the nonprofit and arts sectors in the Detroit region, as a member of boards beyond Kresge’s including the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, the Jewish Federation of Metro Detroit and Karmanos Cancer Institute. He also worked on the legal team for the Detroit Institute of Arts during the city’s bankruptcy, when the jeweled art collection was at risk of falling prey to creditors.

“Alan Schwartz was as good as they come,” said Kresge President & CEO Rip Rapson. “He was one of my earliest and most generous guides to our region and a champion for its potential. His impact on the region will be long remembered and his memory will live on through the organizations, including Kresge, he’s helped to shape. Alan will be sorely missed.”