Brian C. Silverman, 68, of Champaign passed away on Nov. 23, 2011 following a long illness.

He was born in Chicago on Aug. 2, 1943, the son of Mary (Cutler) and Isadore Silverman.

Brian graduated from DePaul University Law School. He became a Cook County assistant public defender, eventually serving as head of the Juvenile Division.

In 1979, he moved to Champaign to become the first full-time public defender of Champaign County. After leaving the Public Defender's Office, Brian had a private practice specializing in criminal defense and family law.

Brian loved the Champaign-Urbana community. He was generous in giving back to it through donations and public service, including providing free legal representation to people in need. He was also a longtime supporter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

An active Republican, Brian served as a precinct committeeman and loved talking politics with anyone who was willing. He was a frequent guest on "Penny for your Thoughts."

A lifelong sports fan, Brian bled Illini Orange and Blue and was always happy supporting Chicago's sports teams. His beloved Cubs often disappointed him, but he never lost his enthusiasm for every one of their games. He often joked that being a Cubs fan prepared him to be a public defender because he was used to losing.

Despite his disabilities in later life, Brian was a model of courage and determination, continuing to be an active part of the legal community.

Underneath his sometimes misunderstood exterior, at the end of the day his friends and family would tell you that his heart and loyalty were unparalleled.

He is survived by his wife, Ilene (Corman) Silverman, his children, Irit Silverman Hotle and Eli Silverman, and his great-niece, Alexis Berns.

Services have been held.