Gary Nateman, a longtime activist and attorney for the beer industry has passed away.
Nateman, most recently an attorney with the law firm Shook, Hardy, & Bacon, was a widely recognized and preeminent beer lawyer in the United States. His career included the position he held as General Counsel to the Brewers Association of America and as an ardent representative of craft brewers through the Association of Brewers and most recently the Brewers Association..
Gary provided his services to the BA’s Walk-Over Label Approval program which provided walkover service to assist with the burdensome TTB label approval process.
He has served in private practice as a lawyer in the field of alcohol beverage regulation for many years.
As a friend to the industry, Gary was a friend to all and anyone. He made himself amazingly accessible. Having been in the beer industry longer than some in the craft beer business have been alive, Gary was always open to sitting and chatting. At the many craft brewers events he attended, he never shied away from anyone, regardless of age or experience; always open to sharing his wealth of knowledge. He took my many calls inquiring about legal issues in the industry, never too busy nor above helping the small brewers gain their success. He helped all who came through the door.
Gary passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 17, 2005, at the Virginia Medical Center of Arlington, from complications related to his recent by-pass surgery.
We will have more information about the services as they become available.