Brian Harold Goral

Brian Harold Goral, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and esteemed attorney, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2024, at the age of 97 in Lakewood, Colorado. Brian was born on February 6, 1927, in Chicago to Bernard and Lydia Goral, née Bloomquist. In 1936, Brian moved with his parents and brother Knox to Denver, where he would build a remarkable life.

Brian's life was marked by service, dedication, and generosity. He served honorably in the Navy during World War II, stationed at the Naval Station Great Lakes. There he excelled at boxing and track. After the war, he attended the University of Denver, where he met the love of his life, Verna Moriarity. The two were married on June 25, 1950, and enjoyed a beautiful partnership filled with love and adventure. Together, they raised their four children in the house they built in Applewood, near Golden, Colorado, and they were still living in that home at the time of his passing.

A graduate of the University of Denver College of Law, Brian dedicated the majority of his career as a city attorney in Denver. His legal acumen led him to argue several significant cases before the Colorado Supreme Court and have two cases go before the Supreme Court of the United States. His professional life was distinguished not only by his legal victories but also by his unwavering commitment to justice, as evidenced by the hundreds of thousands of dollars in pro bono services he provided throughout his career.

Brian was deeply involved in his community. He served as a member of the Board of Trustees of Mile High United Way and he participated in precinct caucuses in Jefferson County. He was most proud, though, of his work as a little league baseball coach and area president.

He had a passion for fixing things, from cars to televisions to violins, and was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. His generosity extended beyond his professional work, as he was known for his kindness and willingness to help others with both his time and resources.

Brian and Verna shared a love for travel, creating cherished memories in England, Ireland, Sweden, Denmark, Russia, Spain, and Mexico. Their travels through the U.S. took them to nearly every state including Alaska and Hawaii. These adventures were a testament to their shared curiosity and zest for life.

Brian leaves behind a legacy of love and service. He is survived by his wife of seventy-four years Verna Goral; his children Bradley Goral, Diana Tomko, and Alan Goral; his grandchildren Krista Goral, Sarah Tomko, Eric Goral, Matthew Goral, and Madeline Goral; and his great-grandchildren Bradon Goral and three others who are minors. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Knox Goral, his son Bruce Goral, and his grandchildren Rider Goral and Geoffrey Goral. His family and friends will remember him for his unwavering dedication, his generous spirit, and the countless ways he made the world a better place.

A service will be held at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver to honor Brian's life and legacy. Details will be shared with family and friends in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Brian's memory to a charity of your choice, reflecting his spirit of generosity and service.

Brian Harold Goral will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.