NORMAN — The death of Oklahoma Supreme Court Justice Marian P. Opala robs the state of a longtime advocate of the First Amendment. He was a tremendous supporter of the free press and the role of journalists in society.
Justice Opala, born in Poland in 1921, was a former POW. His experiences with the Nazis during and before World War II convinced him of the need to vigorously defend freedom of speech.
He routinely shared his story with students at the state’s three law schools. An award from Freedom of Information Oklahoma is named for him. His work ethic was admirable.
At age 89, at a time when most are content to relax, Justice Opala carried a full load at the Supreme Court and this semester was an adjunct instructor at the University of Oklahoma.
He told us recently that he liked to arrive in Norman early to prepare for his class. After nearly 50 years of teaching, he still took time to make sure his notes were fresh for that day’s lecture. Services are planned Monday afternoon. We mourn Justice Opala’s passing and know that Oklahoma is a better state because of his many years of service.
