Congratulations to Ryan P. Armbruster on His Retirement and Extraordinary Career

Today we honor Ryan P. Armbruster as he retires after more than four decades of dedicated service to Elam & Burke, our clients, and communities across Idaho. Ryan’s career has left a lasting imprint on the legal profession and on the cities and towns he helped shape through his deep knowledge of municipal and urban renewal law.

“While the firm is excited for what Ryan does in the next chapter of his life, we will certainly miss his presence at the office.  He is a true professional and the kind of attorney that the next generation should strive to be like.” – Managing Director, Matthew Walters

Born in Chicago in 1951 and raised on the South Side, Ryan’s early exposure to the legal field began as a runner at a downtown law firm. His interest in local government was sparked during a college internship in Peoria, Illinois, where he saw firsthand the impact of strong civic leadership. That experience led him west to Boise, where he began his legal career as a Deputy City Attorney. There, he focused on civil municipal law and worked closely with the Boise Redevelopment Agency, laying the groundwork for a career that would influence urban development across the state.

Ryan joined Elam & Burke in 1979, bringing his passion for public service and sharp legal mind to the firm. Over the years, he became an influential leader in the development of Idaho’s Urban Renewal Law and the Economic Development Act. His work led him to co-found the Redevelopment Association of Idaho, where he continued advocating for thoughtful, community-driven development. His legal guidance shaped transformative projects such as the Ada County Courthouse and the Eighth Street Marketplace in Boise, as well as urban renewal initiatives in Idaho Falls, Heyburn, Jerome, and Ketchum.

In addition to his distinguished legal work, Ryan served as the firm’s managing director, guiding Elam & Burke through key periods of growth and transition. His steady leadership helped shape the firm’s strategic direction, reinforcing its core values while ensuring it remained well-positioned for the future. Ryan had a gift for seeing both the big picture and the finer details, and he brought that same thoughtful approach to managing the business of the firm as he did to practicing law.

One of Ryan’s most enduring legacies is the positive impact he had on the development of other attorneys. He was a generous mentor, taking the time to share his knowledge and experience with younger lawyers and always encouraging them to think critically, act ethically, and serve their clients with integrity. His thoughtful guidance helped shape the careers of many attorneys at the firm, and his influence will continue to resonate in the work we do and the way we do it.

In 2021, Ryan received the Idaho Municipal Attorneys Will Herrington Career of Service Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the profession. Beyond the legal world, he was a dedicated volunteer and civic leader. He chaired the Boise State Bronco Athletic Association Endowment Committee for eighteen years and spent more than two decades officiating youth soccer, showing the same care and attention to detail on the field that he brought to every legal matter.

Above all, Ryan is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Whether traveling through Europe, golfing, riding Boise’s greenbelt, or relaxing in McCall with his family, Ryan approaches life with warmth and curiosity. His presence at the firm will be deeply missed, but his impact will continue to be felt for years to come.

Ryan, thank you for your leadership, your mentorship, and your tireless commitment to our clients, colleagues, and community. Congratulations on a remarkable career. We wish you all the best in this next chapter.