In Memoriam
We are mourning the loss of a foundation of our firm. Wally Pope passed away on September 3, months after being diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. He was 84.
Wally was a founding partner of our firm in 1973. After graduating with honors from the University of Florida College of Law, where he served as Editor-in-Chief of the Law Review, he completed a judicial clerkship and practiced with a top-tier Tampa law firm. In 1974, he joined Tim Johnson and John Blakely in Clearwater to pursue a more entrepreneurial practice. From that moment, he flourished—becoming one of the Bay Area’s premier litigators and playing an essential role in the firm’s growth from one office and three lawyers into three offices and nearly 100 lawyers today.
Wally’s legal career was marked by extraordinary recognition. He was repeatedly listed in Best Lawyers in America, and many times named “Best Litigator of the Year” in several categories, including “Bet the Company” litigation. His leadership extended beyond the courtroom: he served as President of the Clearwater Bar Association, a member of The Florida Bar Board of Governors, and as an Editor-in-Chief of the American Bar Association’s Litigation Journal. He also represented the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission, investigating and prosecuting judicial misconduct. In recognition of his contributions, the Clearwater Bar established the Wally Pope Lifetime Achievement Award, given to honor members who demonstrate exceptional service to the Bar and its Foundation.
Outside the law, Wally’s love of classical music led him to active involvement and chairmanship of The Florida Orchestra. His civic and cultural contributions enriched the community he so deeply cared for.
To his partners and colleagues, Wally was far more than a distinguished attorney. He was a mentor, a source of wisdom, and a friend. His sunny disposition, booming laugh, and penchant for jokes and limericks brightened the firm every day. His absence is deeply felt, and his memory will remain an enduring part of our firm’s spirit.
Wally is survived by his wife, Chris Frederick, and, from his first marriage, daughter Cathy Benkert (Norman) and son Greg (Megan).
In Memoriam
SHASTEEN, Philip M. (“Phil”), 76, of Tampa, Florida, passed away February 28, 2026.
Born March 14, 1949, in Salem, Ohio, Phil was the son of Gordon K. Shasteen and Sara (Serbanuta) Shasteen, both of whom preceded him in death. He grew up in Salem and graduated from Salem High School in 1967 where he played varsity football. During high school he earned his private pilot’s license, and, as its bass player, also founded the R&B show band, The New Breed. The popular group stuck together through the decades and even played for well-attended charity events recently.
Phil went on to earn his undergraduate degree from Youngstown State University in 1972, where he worked his way through college and was a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. He later graduated from Stetson University College of Law in 1975.
Phil built a distinguished career as a securities attorney honored by The Florida Bar for more than 50 years of membership. He was deeply respected in his profession for his integrity, dedication, and steady commitment to his clients and others in his firm.
In 1995, he married Monica L. Barrett, with whom he shared a life grounded in loyalty, partnership, humor, and enduring love.
Phil was a man defined by his character. Loyal, thoughtful, and selfless, he consistently put others before himself. He possessed a quiet strength and a deep sense of responsibility, often stepping forward to help those in need without hesitation—even at personal risk. To those who knew him, he was not only dependable but truly rare in his kindness and integrity, inspiring others by example.
Outside of his professional life, Phil embraced his passions fully. He was an avid sailor and golfer, and a longtime member of the St. Petersburg Country Club from 1999 until 2026. He also had a love for supercars, especially enjoying time behind the wheel of his McLaren. He cared deeply for both people and animals, often offering help without recognition. His friendships endured for a lifetime.
Phil is survived by his beloved wife, Monica L. Shasteen; his sister, Carol (Tom) Larson of Olmitz, Kansas; and his brother, James Shasteen (Marcia Byrer) of St. Petersburg, Florida.
He will be remembered as a humble leader, a devoted husband, a loving uncle, a best friend, and a man of uncommon character whose life left a lasting impression on all who knew him.