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Michael A. Goldman
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Michael Goldman Obituary
Michael graduated from Evergreen High School in Evergreen, Colorado, and Columbia University in New York City, New York. While attending Columbia, he was the starting running back for the Division 1 Columbia Lions football team, receiving the award for most rushing yards his senior season. He earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law in 1987.
Michael began his wide-ranging and highly respected law career in southwest Colorado with the Sixth Judicial District Attorney's Office in 1988. He was a partner in the law firm of Goldman, Nicholson, and Mack, P.C. at the time of his passing.
In 1994, he married DeeDee Carlson. Their son Toby was born in 1996.
Michael saw the best in absolutely every person he met. He had immense, contagious positivity, and tremendous passion and love for his family, friends, and community.
He lived for the outdoors, whether swimming, hiking, biking, or skiing. When Michael finished his training swims at Durango Recreation Center, he took two or three laps down the indoor slide with a huge smile on his face. He would then say, "That was awesome," and continue his day, brightening the world as he went.
Michael exemplified community leadership, directing and serving on numerous nonprofit organizations, legal commissions, and professional associations.
He is survived by his wife, Deanne (DeeDee) Carlson of Durango, and son Tobias (Toby) Goldman of Bellingham, Washington, mother Linda Gelzer, brother David Goldman (Karen Dodds), sister Janlori Goldman (Katherine Franke), mother-in-law Gay Carlson, sisters-in-law Lisa Carlson and Kinsey Carlson-Britting (Kevin Britting) and niece Maya Rose Goldman. Michael's father, Bernie Goldman, preceded him in death.
A celebration of Michael's extraordinary life will be held in the spring of 2026.
In lieu of flowers, contributions honoring Michael's life of service may be sent to Manna Soup Kitchen or the Adaptive Sports Association of Durango.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Goldman
Sponsored by Hood Mortuary - Durango.
10 Entries
John Dustin
Yesterday
We are truly diminished, and much too soon. My modest professional work with him and his firm was always conducted at the highest ethical level, thanks to his natural leadership. Gone, sadly yes, but his inspiration toward excellence lives on.
Marissa Hunt
December 19, 2025
On behalf of Manna,
We are thinking of DeeDee & Michael's family, and holding you close to our hearts during this time. We will always remember Michael for his kindness, brightness, and caring heart. It was a privilege to work with Michael, and more importantly, to know him as the incredible community member and person that he was. I've always been inspired by he & DeeDee's sense of adventure and giving nature. We will surely miss him.
With Love,
The Manna Team
Bill Zimsky
December 19, 2025
I met Michael soon after I moved to Durango in the early 1990's. As an attorney, I had several cases against him and he was not only a skilled attorney but was a true professional in every sense of the term. He treated all of my clients with respect. He was one of the friendliest and most positive persons I have ever met and it was always a pleasure to run into him at the pool, Lake Nighthorse, or social events. I will miss him. Rest in peace, my brother.
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Brad Crist
December 19, 2025
We met on the soccer field. I think. A long time ago. DD was already on our team. Immediately it was apparent that it was better to have Michael on my team than to play against him. A natural athlete and a true and positive ally!
Time passed, we had sons born a year apart.
We participated together in what seem like some of the greatest events and times that our natural world offers! During a spring ski mission, we found ourselves unsure of our remaining strength and of our ability to proceed in the face of daunting terrain. We laughed. We decided to go "higher"! A one word mantra, a slogan, a greeting began there and followed us for years. Right up to our last joyful meeting! Higher!!! Aways joyful! Always laughing!
My love and my deepest condolences to Toby and DD!
To all: Live like Michael!
Brenna Morlan
December 18, 2025
Michael was truly a wonderful human being and person that I was lucky to know. In my 8 years of serving on the town board with Bayfield, Michael was our town attorney. He was always very kind and explained things very well to us and he always treated everybody with the utmost respect. It was my great pleasure to work alongside him and he will truly be missed. I send my regards and condolences to his family.
Jim Whitley
December 18, 2025
Michael was a lawyer that other lawyers in town aspired to emulate; no bogus claims or defenses, no "Rambo" antics against opposing counsel--just skilled advocacy in the best traditions of our profession. And he was a great guy.
Jim Whitley
Fran Reynolds
December 18, 2025
Michael was taken too soon. DeeDee, we are thinking of you in this time of sorrow and sending love and prayers for healing. He left behind a beautiful legacy of a life well lived. May he rest in peace.
Robert Sealby
December 17, 2025
I am brokenhearted and at a loss for words. I loved Michael like a brother and will always cherish the memories we have.
Rest in peace, my friend. I will miss you.
Mark Morgan
December 17, 2025
It was my honor to know and work with Michael. I even got to share a few Sunday Church Rides with him. The community will deeply miss his intelligence, sincerity and kindness.
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