Avi Halzel

Obituary of Avi Halzel

Avi Samuel Halzel, aged 59, of Denver, Colorado, passed away on March 1, 2026.

He was born on October 12, 1966, in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He grew up in Boston and later made his way to San Diego. While studying at San Diego State University, he met the love of his life, Rayna. Together, they continued their journey at the University of Judaism in Los Angeles, building a foundation of learning, faith, and shared purpose that would guide their lives.

After marrying, Avi and Rayna moved to Ohio, where Avi began his lifelong career in Jewish education. It was there that they started their beautiful family. Avi went on to lead several Jewish Day Schools before finding his long and lasting home at the Denver Jewish Day School. As the son of a Jewish School Head and a Holocaust survivor, Avi's respect for the power and wisdom of Jewish values was palpable. For 19 years, Avi poured his heart and soul into the school community as CEO/Head of School at DJDS. With his steady leadership, deep wisdom, and unwavering commitment, he shaped generations of students and inspired colleagues, parents, and families throughout the Jewish community. His impact reached far beyond the classroom walls.

Avi was known for his positive spirit, calm demeanor, playful goofiness, and thoughtful insight. He led with both strength and humility, always guided by his values and his deep love for Jewish education. Nothing brought him greater joy than being with his family. He enjoyed travelling and going on bike rides. He was a passionate and lifelong fan of Rush and an avid drummer, finding energy and expression behind his drum set throughout his life. He also remained a devoted Boston sports fan, carrying his hometown pride with him wherever he lived.

He will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, a proud and caring father, a respected leader, a trusted mentor, and a dear friend to many. He is survived by his beloved wife, Rayna, and their cherished children: Matan, Ariela, Adina, and Gilad. His legacy lives on through them and through the countless lives he touched.

Service, Thursday, March 5 th, 11:00 AM, Hebrew Educational Alliance; Livestream of chapel service provided by HEA; Interment, Mt. Nebo Cemetery; Livestream of cemetery on the Feldman Mortuary YouTube channel.

Memorial contributions may be made to Denver Jewish Day School or Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Avi's memory will forever be a blessing.