DLNews Celebrating Life:

Celebrating the Life of Harold Matzner

On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the lights of the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert will glow a little brighter, as friends, family, and admirers gather to celebrate the life of Harold Matzner—a man whose generosity and vision helped define the spirit of the Coachella Valley. The Celebration of Life begins at 5:00 p.m., with doors opening at 4:00 p.m., followed by a reception that promises to be filled with stories, laughter, and heartfelt memories.

To anyone who lived or loved in this valley, Harold Matzner was more than a name on a building or a sponsor’s banner—he was the pulse of community giving. His presence could be felt everywhere: in the McCallum Theatre he so passionately supported, in the Palm Springs International Film Festival he helped transform into a global event, in Eisenhower Health’s commitment to excellence, and in the many local charities that found both funding and friendship in his open hand.

Those who knew him speak of a man who believed that success meant nothing unless it lifted others. He gave quietly, yet powerfully, often choosing to remain behind the scenes while ensuring that the show—or the cause—went on. His generosity wasn’t just about money. It was about belief: in people, in art, in kindness, and in this unique desert community he loved so deeply.

As the program unfolds, tributes from family, friends, and community leaders will reflect the depth of his influence and the warmth of his heart. And though the evening will surely carry moments of sorrow, it will also be filled with gratitude—a celebration not of loss, but of a life lived with extraordinary purpose.

For those unable to attend in person, a livestream beginning at 4:30 p.m. on Harold Matzner’s official website https://haroldmatzner.com will allow his admirers across the world to join in. Because even now, Harold continues to bring people together—just as he always did.