LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION mourning the death of Matthew J. Schnirel,
distinguished citizen and devoted member of his community

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Matthew J. Schnirel of Buffalo, New York, died on Tuesday,
April 28, 2009, at the age of 26; and
WHEREAS, A native of Buffalo, Matthew J. Schnirel was a 2001 graduate
of Sweet Home High School, earned a bachelor of arts degree in history
from the University at Albany in 2005, and his law degree from the
University at Buffalo Law School in 2008; and
WHEREAS, A sports enthusiast, Matthew J. Schnirel played varsity foot-
ball and baseball at Sweet Home High School and enjoyed skiing; he was a
fan of the Buffalo Sabres and a season ticket holder of the Buffalo
Bills; he was also a lifeguard at Ransom Oaks for seven years; and
WHEREAS, Though his legal career had just begun, Matthew J. Schnirel
had made a splash within the legal profession because of extensive
participation in moot court trial competitions while in law school; and
WHEREAS, He represented the university in competitions across the
country including New York, Texas and Michigan, and was described by his
trial team coach as bright, hardworking and thoughtful; and
WHEREAS, After graduating from law school, Mr. Schnirel voluntarily
helped University at Buffalo's trial teams prepare for competitions; and
WHEREAS, Matthew J. Schnirel distinguished himself in his profession
and by his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to the
welfare of his community; and
WHEREAS, A respected attorney with Doran and Murphy LLP, Buffalo, New
York, Matthew J. Schnirel specialized as a champion for the rights of
injury victims; he prided himself on being an advocate for his clients,
who praised him for helping them understand the complexities of tort and
asbestos litigation; and
WHEREAS, Matthew J. Schnirel was the partner of Lauren Schilling,
considered the love of his life; they recently purchased their first
home together in Snyder, New York; and
WHEREAS, Predeceased by his grandfather, John F. Flanigan, Matthew
J. Schnirel, in addition to Lauren Schilling, is survived by his
parents, Kevin and Kathleen; two sisters, Amanda and Rebecca; a brother,
Eric; grandparents, Robert J. and Patricia Schnirel, and Marilyn Flani-
gan; an uncle, Michael (Mary Ann) Schnirel; and eight cousins; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit, imbued with a sense of
compassion, and comforted by a loving family, Matthew J. Schnirel leaves
behind a legacy which will long endure the passage of time and will
remain as a comforting memory to all he served and befriended; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Matthew J. Schnirel, distinguished citizen and
devoted member of his community; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of Matthew J. Schnirel.