It is with deep sadness we share with you all news of the passing of retired Judge Walter Komanski this past Sunday.
Judge Komanski was a graduate of the University of Central Florida before attending John Marshall Law School for his juris doctor. After graduating in 1975, he spent time as both a prosecutor and the Director of the Legal Aid Society. But it was in 1980 that he made the life-changing decision to run for the bench. After a successful campaign for an Orange County seat, Judge Komanski joined us in the Ninth in 1981. Then, in 1984, he successfully ran again, but this time for a Circuit court seat.
Over his 32 years on the bench, he served in many of our circuit’s divisions—but it was his time in the juvenile division that made him well-known amongst the legal and local communities. Determined to make a difference in his division, Judge Komanski became a member of organizations like the Juvenile Justice Standards Committee, the Florida Juvenile Court Rules Committee, and the Orange County Citizen’s Commission for Children.
For much of his life, Judge Komanski dedicated his time to serving his community through the law. He was a friend and mentor to many in our circuit, and his memory will not be forgotten in these halls. Please keep his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers at this time.