Patent attorney Robert L. Harmon, 72, passed away recently at Northwestern Memorial Hospital due to complications from lung cancer. Mr. Harmon retired in 1997 from the Chicago law firm now known as Brinks, Hofer, Gilson & Lione. He then wrote a book titled "Patents and the Federal Circuit." Mr. Harmon received his juris doctor from the University of Michigan Law School in 1963, He was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1965 and joined the Brinks, Hofer firm as an associate. A memorial reception for family and friends is set for Saturday. Call the Cremation Society of Illinois for details (773) 281-5058. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Harmon's name to the American Cancer Society, (800) 227-2345 or at www.cancer.org.