The story of Jackie Nielsen and Pink Larkin goes back, way back, even before Pink Larkin was a glimmer in the eye of Ron Pink and Ray Larkin. Jackie started with our predecessor firm, Kitz Matheson back in 1984. Jackie became a Group Coordinator at Patterson Kitz, and when Pink Larkin opened its doors in June 1989, Jackie, the newly named Manager of the firm, oversaw the building of our new space on 1583 Hollis Street and arranged for the move of all of the lawyers, staff and equipment (including our teeny, tiny Mac computers). When the doors opened on that day in June 1989, there were four lawyers, one articled clerk and three staff.
Jackie continued to wear her Scheduling Coordinator hat, alongside running the day to day operations of the firm. Over the next 17 years, Jackie managed the growth of the firm, which included new lawyers and new staff, and lots of new space. Pink Larkin’s offices grew from 3500 square feet to 10,000 square feet (over 2 floors).
Wishing to work part time, Jackie stepped down as Manager in 2006, but continued in the role of Scheduling Coordinator. She took a few months of leave in the fall of 2007, but came back to resume her role with the firm in 2008. She has managed the scheduling of hearings, and all related matters, with a firm hand, but always with tact and diplomacy. She worked with arbitrators, mediators and lawyers, and their staff, and all came to rely on and respect her extensive knowledge and experience.
After 33 years with Pink Larkin (and its predecessor firms), Jackie has decided to retire and enjoy the next stage in her life. While she will most definitely be missed by everyone here at the firm, everyone at Pink Larkin wishes Jackie, and her husband, Alf, the longest, happiest and healthiest retirement.
This post is written by Sandy McKenna, Manager of Administration