Hedy Margolis
Longtime community leader Hedy Margolis died May 22, 2022. She was 80. A service was held May 31 at Fort Logan National Cemetery, officiated by Rabbi Bruce Dollin. Arrangements were made by Feldman Mortuary.
Mrs. Margolis was known for her distinguished work for the City of Lakewood, and for many charitable organizations she either assisted with or founded. In 1971, she created the Special Populations Program in Lakewood, which focused on improving the lives of adults and children with disabilities. The program thrived under Mrs. Margolis’ direction for more than 30 years.
In addition, Mrs. Margolis was twice president of Lakewood on Parade, an event she helped guide for over 38 years.
Her devotion to helping those with special needs was also exemplified in her work for 26 years as area director for the Colorado Special Olympics. She was heavily involved with the Inter- national Special Olympics.
Mrs. Margolis established the USO in Denver and Colorado Springs, helping members of the US military, veterans and their families. In 2005, Mrs. Margolis organized the first USO Center at Denver International Airport, which today provides programs for over 170,000 guests annually.
“Hedy Margolis was the reason the USO is in Colorado,” said Gen. David Hodne, Garrison Commander General at Ft. Carson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs. “Her passion, persistence and compassion for others was unparalleled.”
Mrs. Margolis was honored by Lake- wood Mayor Steve Berkholder with the “Women Who Made a Difference in the 20thCentury” award. She was recognized with a proclamation and award from former Colorado Governor Bill Owens for her lifelong work and accomplishments in the Colorado community, and was selected in 1998 by President Bill Clinton and Colorado Governor Roy Romer as the state’s representative to the White House for the Americans with Disabilities Act.
“Hedy was a paradigm for what’s possible in life,” her family said. “She lived her life with care, and led with passion and determination.
“At the same time, Hedy treated others with kindness and compassion, making a positive impact on the Colorado community and nationwide, for generations to follow.
“She was a pioneer, and in the true sense of the word a ‘leader’ in the community.”
In addition, she was a devoted member of the HEA sisterhood.
Mrs. Margolis was born in 1942 in Albuquerque, NM. She was married to Larry Margolis for 53 years before his passing in 2014. They lived in Chicago, Albuquerque and Scottsdale, before moving to Lakewood in 1971.
Survivors are children Sharon (the late Kris) Anderson, Robert Margolis and David Margolis; three grandchildren; and brother Jerry Berger.
Contributions may be made to Easter Seals or HEA.
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