The world is mourning the loss of Malcolm Margolin, a beloved author, publisher, and cultural visionary, who passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by family. Known for his zest for life, humor, and boundless appreciation for beauty, Malcolm’s absence will be profoundly felt by the countless people whose lives he touched. A celebration of his life and legacy will be announced at a later date.
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Malcolm Margolin’s legacy is both vast and enduring. As the founder of Heyday Books and the California Institute for Community, Art & Nature, he dedicated his life to uplifting voices, preserving cultural traditions, and sharing stories that mattered. His work gave a platform to Native California communities, environmental advocates, and artists, ensuring their stories reached wider audiences with respect and authenticity.
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Malcolm carried with him a tenacity that balanced curiosity with joy. Friends and colleagues remember him as endlessly encouraging, urging others to “never refuse an adventure” and to approach life with boldness and playfulness.
From his celebrated books, including The Ohlone Way, to his decades of mentorship and community building, Malcolm’s contributions transcended publishing. He was a storyteller, teacher, and “chief instigator,” inspiring those around him to embrace creativity, challenge conventions, and live unapologetically.
“He was one of the most remarkable, gentle, and kind spirits one could ever encounter,” said one longtime friend. “His love, laughter, and wisdom were gifts that will never fade.”
Malcolm Margolin will be remembered not only as a writer and cultural leader but also as a friend whose light brightened every space he entered. His legacy lives on in the stories he preserved, the institutions he built, and the countless people he inspired.
As Malcolm himself once said: “What I’m passing on to people is… the capacity to have fun. To have a life that you can build around.”