Obituary: Rupert M. Barkoff

Rupert M. Barkoff, 71, passed away peacefully June 5, 2019, in Atlanta. He was born May 7, 1948, in New Orleans, to Martha and Samuel Barkoff. Rupert was a proud graduate of Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, and The University of Michigan Law School. Attending Michigan football games with his children and grandchildren brought him tremendous joy.

Rupert spent his entire career as an attorney with Kilpatrick Townsend (originally Kilpatrick & Cody), joining in 1973 upon moving to Atlanta following law school graduation. He was a pioneer in the field of franchise law, demonstrating expertise in franchisor and franchisee practices, both nationally and internationally, with frequent trips to Australia to support new business concept development. Everyone who encountered Rupert remarked about his gentleness, intelligence and sense of humor. These traits were present at home and in the workplace.

Rupert is survived by his wife Susan; sisters Bonnie Mayerson and Susan Kobayashi; children and their spouses, Stuart and Alison Barkoff, Jeffrey and Marla Barkoff, and Lisa and Tyler Wright; and many grandchildren, nephews and nieces, who affectionately called him “Umps.”

A graveside service was held to honor Rupert’s kindness and accomplished life June 7, 2019, at Arlington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be designated “in memory of Rupert Barkoff, class of 1966” to Isidore Newman School, 1903 Jefferson Ave., New Orleans, LA 70115, or “in memory of Rupert Barkoff, JD 1973,” to the University of Michigan Law School, Development and Alumni Relations, 701 South State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-3091 or 734-615-4500. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, Atlanta, 770-451-4999.