Randolph M Karsh

On a calm summer morning, Randolph “Randy” Karsh, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, resilience, and love. A respected attorney and taxation expert, Randy was much more than his professional accolades; he was a beloved husband, a doting father, a loyal friend, and a pillar of his community. With his charming wit, legendary storytelling, and incredible hair—he embodied an undeniable light. Randy's life was full, not just in years but in the richness of the relationships he nurtured and the passions he pursued.

Born into humble beginnings, Randy faced numerous challenges from a young age, but he never allowed adversity to define him. Instead, he embraced each obstacle with determination and a relentless desire to improve himself and the lives of those around him. His pursuit of excellence led him to become the first in his family to attend college, earning a degree from the University of Colorado and later, a Juris Doctorate from the University of Denver. His academic journey culminated in a Master of Laws in Taxation from New York University, setting the stage for a distinguished career as a business and tax lawyer.

Randy’s legal expertise garnered recognition both nationally and internationally. After beginning his career as a law clerk for the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, he established a successful private practice as a business and tax lawyer. As a partner at Holland & Hart LLP, Randy gained extensive experience in structuring and financing ventures between individuals, U.S. companies, and foreign entities, leveraging his fluency in Spanish in 1994 to serve as special tax counsel to a law firm in Mexico City. His contributions to the legal community were significant, including active participation in the American Bar Association's Tax Section and co-authoring a key chapter in the Colorado Estate Planning Handbook. Randy was dedicated to his clients and continued practicing law with SJS Law LLC until his death. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Randy was known for forming lasting friendships and was deeply respected by his colleagues and clients.

Randy's commitment to his community was as strong as his dedication to his career. He served his community as President of the Old North End Neighborhood Association and was a pivotal figure in the creation of the Center for Christian-Jewish Dialogue. His generosity and spirit of service touched countless lives, and his absence will be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Among his many passions was his extraordinary talent for woodworking, which reflected his meticulous nature and his love for creating beauty with his own hands. His handcrafted pieces are treasured by family and friends, serving as lasting reminders of his creativity, skill, and the care he put into everything he did.

Even in his final days, Randy exemplified the tenacity that defined his life. His legacy of hard work and determination will continue to inspire those who knew him. Randy leaves behind his beloved wife, Beverly, his two cherished daughters, Aleah and Erika, his brother-in-law, David (spouse Mark), and his faithful dog, Rafi. Randy is reunited with his mother, Julia, his son, Aaron, and his dog-son, Nikko, who preceded him in death.

As we remember Randy, we honor a life well-lived, and a man deeply loved. In his memory, raise a glass of his infamous pure margaritas or a dry, straight-up martini, and toast to the incredible impact he made on the world.

If you find it in your heart and within your means, please consider a charitable donation to one of the following causes close to Randy:

- Randy had Hemophilia for most of his life (along with numerous family members) and the Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center of Colorado saved his life on more than one occasion.

- The University of Colorado Transplant Center gave Randy an additional 16 years with us. We hope that others may also experience the gift of more time with their loved ones through the work of the Transplant Center.

To make a contribution to either of the causes above, visit: http://giving.cu.edu/rmkarsh