Jake Dear

Jake Dear passed from this life on June 5, 2026, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.  He was 69.  He is survived by his wife, Maureen (Mo), and their son, Adam and wife, Timmi.  Jake served as chief supervising attorney of the California Supreme Court under three Chief Justices as part of his 40-year career at the court.  

In addition to his work at the court, Jake served for many years as associate editor of the California Supreme Court Historical Society Review, and he wrote and spoke extensively regarding the court’s history and the influence its decisions have had on courts in other jurisdictions.  

Away from the court, Jake’s passions were travel, food, and wine.  He and Mo traveled extensively in Europe and Jake documented these adventures with his wonderful photography skills.  

A private funeral Mass for family and close friends will be held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Larkspur. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to an organization doing research into treatments for pancreatic cancer.  

Assisted by Monte’s Chapel of the Hills, San Anselmo, CA.

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