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Laney Malavolta Obituary

Laney Ann Malavolta (39 years old) died unexpectedly on April 30th, 2021 in a bear attack in Durango, Colorado where she resided.

She was the shining light in all our lives and we are heartbroken. We will miss her big smile, everlasting optimism, and caring spirit.

Laney was an outdoor enthusiast; hiked the Inca trail with her mom and close friends; hiked 7-14ers. She volunteered as a victims' advocate for 15 years and loved animals.

She leaves behind her life partner, Justin Rangel, and her parents, Steve Malavolta and Janice Carolan, Aunt Pat and Uncle Jim Dickover, Uncle Ed Carolan, Uncle Bob and Aunt Janis Carolan; Uncle George and Aunt Julie Malavolta; and their two children and four grandchildren.

In-laws Brenda and Keith Rangel; their children Tony and Paige Rangel and their three children; Aryn and Keith Henneke and their three children; as well as cousins and countless friends.

Laney is preceded in death by her Nanna, Poppy, and Grammy.

We treasure the short amount of time Laney graced our lives.

A memorial will be held on May 21 in Durango, Colorado.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to victim advocate groups or animal rescues in her honor.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Durango Herald on May 10, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Laney Malavolta

Not sure what to say?





Beate Hernandez

August 29, 2022

I just read about what happened to you and my Heart is breaking for you and your Family,you are a beautiful Angel soaring in the heavens,watching over your precious Family

Amber D'Anne

July 26, 2021

Laney was a classmate of mine for years at Bellehaven Elementary School, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
She was so cool, and kind; a combination that gave her presence an ethereal nature.
When we were 12, we unexpectedly ran into each other while skiing and our fathers allowed us to hit the slopes on our own. It was an extraordinary day of friendly competition, pushing each other to the limits. I felt so empowered. Her contagious smile beaming as the soft snow fell all around us. It was truly one of the best experiences of my childhood.
Love you, Laney, the sweetness of your legacy lives on forever in our memory.

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Amber & Family

Planted Trees

Gwen Richards Czura

May 27, 2021

I only knew of Laney as her father is a family friend, but I am sorry I did not get to meet her, and so very sorry she was taken at such a young age. From what I understand, she had a big heart and a natural gift of compassion and caring for those in need, and this world could use more people like her in it. I know she was much loved by her friends and family. I hope that our donation to Parker's Animal Rescue was in line with what she would have wanted. May she rest in eternal peace, and may the memories of her goodness help comfort her family and friends who mourn her loss.

Gwen Richards Czura

May 27, 2021

I am sorry I did not get to know Laney, as I only know of her as her father is a friend of my family. But I am so sorry she was taken at such a young age. From what I have learned, she had a big heart who was much loved by her family and friends and who was gifted and compassionate in helping those in need, both humans and animals. I hope that our donation to Parker's Animal Rescue would be in line with what she would have wanted. May she rest in eternal peace, and may the memories of her goodness bring comfort to her family and friends as they mourn her loss.

Katherine Turner

May 15, 2021

Laney graced our lives when she coordinated our wedding plans on the rooftop patio at Eolus. She was a beautiful, warm and gracious soul. We feel blessed to have known her, and pray for peace and healing in the hearts of those missing her. May the wonderful times and memories of her never fade.

Julie Salazar Fode

May 14, 2021

Laney Ann sounds like a wonderful person. Loved by many! Beautiful young lady. I am very sorry for your loss. I had to give my condoles, I am sure it is a great loss. I put neighbor, she could have been mine and I would have cherished her as well.

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