Ira T. Distenfield

Ira T. Distenfield, a tenacious and visionary leader who modeled perseverance to all he touched, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 78.

Ira is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Distenfield; his children, Bill Malina and his wife Rhonda, Robert Malina and his wife Fox, Jennifer Distenfield, David Distenfield, Derek Distenfield and his wife Olesya, Dustin Distenfield, and Dawnie Distenfield and her husband Levi.

He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Mason Miller Malina, Bailey Sloane Distenfield, Nathan Leo Delgado, Levi Cash Beck, Duke Tansey Distenfield, Ocean Clark Beck, Rivers Herbert Yin Malina, Lincoln Bell Distenfield, Charlee Hope Taylor, and Zoey Jeaneen Taylor; and by his loving sisters, Davida Nelson and her husband Rick, and Elaine Duhl.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Josephine and Leo Distenfield, and his brother-in-law, Stuart Duhl.

Born on June 14, 1946, Ira lived a life defined by purpose, perseverance, and profound impact. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1974 before launching an extraordinary career in both business and public service.

Ira spent over two decades at Smith Barney, where he rose to become the top-producing Branch Manager and pioneered a new leadership role, Complex Manager, overseeing multiple offices. His vision and people-first approach made him a respected leader in the financial industry.

He later served as President of the Port of Los Angeles, where he led with innovation and vision, helping to modernize one of the world's busiest ports and strengthen its global competitiveness.

Most notably, Ira co-founded and served as CEO of We the People, where he helped give birth to an entirely new industry: affordable, accessible legal document services. Under his leadership, the company directly served hundreds of thousands of consumers and small businesses, paving the way for an industry that now provides millions of people "another key into the courthouse."

A graduate of Northern Illinois University, Ira remained a lifelong learner and mentor. He was also an active member of Desert Outreach Synagogue, where his faith, wisdom, and generosity enriched the community.

Outside his professional life, Ira found joy in horseback riding and tennis.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 10:00 AM PDT at Shalom Chapel, located at Sholom Memorial Park Mortuary, 13017 Lopez Canyon Road, Sylmar, CA 91342.

You can also watch the ceremony live by clicking on: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/7045014434.

He touched countless lives and helped shape multiple industries through sheer will and unwavering belief in what was possible. He will be forever missed.