Steve Farber, behemoth Denver power broker, has died

Farber co-founded the influential law firm Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck.
2 min. read
Steve Farber died on March 4, 2020.
Michael Martin

Steve Farber, founder of what has become one of the largest lobbying firms in the country, died the morning of March 4, his firm told Denverite.

Farber co-founded Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck in 1968, a Denver-based firm that has grown to include 500 attorneys across the U.S. and has become the second most profitable lobbying firm in the U.S. The firm has "helped shape Denver's skyline," read a proclamation Gov. John Hickenlooper issued honoring the firm in 2018.

"From securing funding for the construction of Denver International Airport to securing financing for the E-470 Public Highway and the TREX project, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck is committed to ensuring Denver remains a thriving and growing city," the proclamation continued.

Farber himself represented ASCENT Corporation, the former owner of the Denver Nuggets and the Avalanche. He was involved in numerous political, charitable and community causes, according to his biography on the firm's website, including founding the American Transplant Foundation.

Norm Brownstein, who co-founded the firm with Farber and describes himself as Farber's "lifelong friend and business partner of more than 50 years" issued this statement:

"Today, with great sadness, we say goodbye to a Colorado legend, Steve Farber. Steve passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at his home. For more than 50 years, Steve and I were partners on this incredible journey that started on the playground at Colfax Elementary. Who would have thought Steve, Jack Hyatt and I, three kids from North Denver, could do all this? Throughout his career, Steve was one of the most respected and accomplished leaders in the country. He inspired change not only at the firm, but throughout Colorado and across the nation. Steve was often the first call CEOs, politicians and community leaders made because they knew he would find a way to get the job done. Our ability to thrive as firm for more than 50 years is a testament to Steve's leadership, work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit."

This is a developing story and will be updated.

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