Celebrating our colleagues who are no longer with us.

Jeffrey M. Cheyne
Partner
1946 – 2016

Jeff was a cherished member of Samuels Yoelin Kantor for 10 years. He was well known in the Pacific Northwest for his intellect and legal skills, a deep understanding of the complexities of trust and estate law and taxation, and his professionalism and contributions to the bar and community.

Jeff joined the SYK team in July of 2006, practicing in the areas of estate, tax, business and real estate planning. Jeff was licensed to practice in California, Oregon and Washington. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Oregon. Subsequently, he earned his J.D. and L.L.M. in Taxation from the University of San Diego.

Jeff’s warmth, good humor, generosity – of both his time and tasty pastry treats for the office –  and razor sharp mind will be missed by all of us who were lucky to have him in our lives.

Jeff’s passion for legal service continues on. The Jeffrey M. Cheyne Memorial Service Award was established in 2017. The 2019 award was issued by the Oregon State Bar Estate Planning and Administration Section to attorney Jonathan A. Levy on November 2019.

Merritt Yoelin
Partner
1940-2012

Senior Partner Merritt Yoelin passed away on October 15, 2012 after a long and brave battle with cancer. He was a respected member of the Samuels Yoelin Kantor family, and was a partner of the firm for more than 40 years. He was well known throughout the Pacific Northwest for his legal skills and tireless commitment to his clients, a deep understanding of the complexities around taxation, and his dedication to community service.

We feel fortunate to have known Merritt as a loyal friend, talented attorney and esteemed colleague. We will always be inspired by his legacy of service — to his clients, his colleagues and associates, his community and his family.

Hy Samuels
Partner
1904-1992

Hy Samuels was born in Portland Oregon, he attended the University of Oregon, and in 1927 was admitted to the Oregon State Bar. Hy founded Samuels Yoelin Kantor later that same year. Originally a solo practice, the firm was located in downtown Portland, in the Yeon Building at the corner of SW 5th and Morrison. During World War II, Hy helped to bring German refugees to Portland, and personally guaranteed their financial security. He was a recipient of the Torch of Liberty, awarded by the AntiDefamation League, in 1970. In 1988, the American Jewish Committee (Portland Chapter) issued him the Maurce Sussman Award. He was a loved and respected member of the community, and he laid the solid foundation upon which this firm was built.