Alan Popkin  1935 – 2024

Alan Popkin, one of District 8’s most prominent players, passed away at his St. Louis home on January 20. 

Born in New York, he moved to St. Louis as a young boy. Eventually he attended Yale, but got the acting bug and left to go to acting school. He appeared in one play but gave up acting to return to St. Louis. 

Once home, he entered Washington University Law School and became editor of the Law Review. He graduated first in his class. He had an illustrious career and became a member of the American College of Trial Lawyers. He once argued a case in front of the Supreme Court. He loved his profession and loved to help friends.

The bridge bug bit him early, and he was a fine player when I met him. He was a mentor to some of the good, upcoming players. He played on teams with Ron Smith, Roger Lord, Norbert Kremer and others in the St. Louis area.  He and Roger won the Silver Ribbon Pairs at the Philadelphia NABC in 2003, qualifying them to become Grand Life Masters.

My favorite Alan story was when he and (I think) Norbert Kremer, Ron Smith and Roger Lord drew Marshall Miles in the Spingold. Alan's partner opened a suit higher than clubs and Alan responded 2C. His partner bid 3NT and Marshall led a suit. Alan laid down his Jx of clubs and his partner tabled his hand, claiming 9 tricks while putting his Qx of clubs off to the side.

Alan had many good stories. A wine aficionado, he would pour fine wine from his cellar for his guests and offer fine cigars from his humidor. Then the stories would follow. I already miss him.

   - Tom Kniest