Ronald Margolis Obituary

Ronald A. Margolis, whom many knew as Aryeh, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026 in Durango, Colorado, his home of more than 35 years. Ron was born in Kansas City, Missouri to Helen Novorr Margolis and Jack J. Margolis. He graduated from Shawnee Mission East High School, the University of Texas in Austin where he was a member of ZBT and Silver Spurs, and Georgetown University Law School. He worked for Ralph Nader and at the U. S. Department of Treasury before deciding that the structure he was working within did not allow him to serve in the way his heart was calling. After extensive world travel with a pack on his back, he settled in Colorado and began a career as a tile setter, creating beautiful work with his hands while striving to live in close alignment with his values. Ron chose a life that allowed him to continue learning, questioning, and seeking. His efforts were guided by a sincere desire to contribute to a more conscious and caring world. In Durango, Ron mentored youth, did mediation work, taught at Fort Lewis College, served on the boards of Durango Natural Foods and Animas Valley Institute, hosted Good Dirt Radio, participated in the city planning commission, helped initiate the city's recycling program, fought for a fluoride-free water supply, and brought people together through an organization he founded called People of Conscience. Ron loved the natural world and travel. He spent time in wild places, including work in Africa supporting human-elephant relations. He lived with a spirit of curiosity and exploration, continually seeking to stay awake to life. Ron will be remembered not only for what he did, but for how he lived-with kindness, integrity, curiosity, compassion, and a sincere commitment to what it means to be fully human.
He was predeceased by his parents and his wife, Maria Cristina y del la Guardia. He is survived by his sister and brother in law, Teri and Steve Cohn of Prairie Village, Kansas; his nephews Randall Cohn of Vancouver British Columbia, Michael Cohn of Seattle, and Daniel Cohn of Seattle and Bainbridge Island; a great niece and two great nephews; many cousins and a myriad of devoted and caring friends.
A celebration of life will be held in Durango on Sunday, May 31, 2026. Please RSVP to [email protected] .
Please make contributions in his honor to any charity that helps those who are in need.