Palm Desert’s city attorney passes away

Palm Desert officials have confirmed the passing of the city’s longtime City Attorney, Dave Erwin.

Erwin’s law firm, Best, Best & Krieger, reported that Erwin passed away on Saturday at the age of 81.

City Manager John Wohlmuth released the following statement:

“No other person in Palm Desert’s history has had a longer or more intimate association with this City. Dave Erwin was Palm Desert’s first and only City Attorney, serving in that capacity through five decades. His long and illustrious association with Palm Desert predates the City’s existence as he helped to draft the documents that led to our incorporation in 1973. Dave’s 42 years of skillful, loyal, and dedicated service to Palm Desert is deeply appreciated by all of us who had the privilege of knowing and working with him and is one reason that Palm Desert remains such a uniquely wonderful community.”

Wohlmuth said Erwin’s memorial service takes place Friday, November 20, at 10 a.m. at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, located at 47535 Highway 74.