Harold Matzner: A Life of Business Vision and Desert Philanthropy

Harold Matzner: A Life of Business Vision and Desert Philanthropy

For more than three decades, Harold Matzner called the Coachella Valley home, bringing with him a career defined by bold entrepreneurship and an unwavering commitment to community service. A visionary in both business and philanthropy, Matzner built his reputation in New York and New Jersey as the CEO of a successful branding, advertising, and marketing firm. There, he pioneered the concept of targeted “shared mail,” a now widely used model that transformed how companies reach consumers and remains a staple of the industry.

Matzner’s business instincts eventually found a new outlet in Palm Springs, where he became the owner of Spencer’s Restaurant, one of the desert’s most beloved dining destinations. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and timeless elegance, Spencer’s reflects Matzner’s eye for detail and his ability to blend quality with broad appeal—an approach that echoes his marketing success.

Yet it is perhaps his impact on the cultural life of the Coachella Valley that has left the deepest mark. When the Palm Springs International Film Festival faced uncertain times, Matzner stepped forward with vision, resources, and determination. His leadership revitalized the festival, transforming it into one of the most respected events on the global film calendar and a major driver of tourism and prestige for the region.

Beyond business and culture, Matzner’s generosity touched nearly every corner of the valley. A dedicated humanitarian and philanthropist, he supported hospitals, educational programs, arts organizations, and countless nonprofits, earning widespread respect as a quiet but powerful force for progress.

Harold Matzner passed away on September 4, 2025, at Eisenhower Health in Palm Springs after a brief illness. He was 88. Funeral services will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to a charity of one’s choice, honoring his lifelong spirit of giving. His life was a testament to how success, paired with generosity, can transform not only industries but entire communities.