Family, Friends Remember Beloved Community Activist Who Died From COVID-19

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Family, friends and fellow activists and leaders gathered at the Utah State Capitol to remember the life of beloved community activist Margarita Satini.

“Hearts are heavy,” her brother John Satini said Wednesday night. “She fought for what she believed in. For those who felt like they didn’t have a chance — she fought for those people.”

Even at the end of her life, there was no mistaking at Wednesday’s vigil, the light that flowed from Satini in life. Her influence extended well beyond the masked group that gathered at the capitol, many who described her as an unapologetic and fierce warrior and community activist.

“She was moved by injustice and always called to act. And she always answered that call,” a friend said of her.

Our community has lost a champion of social justice. We are all mourning the loss of Margarita Satini. A fearless advocate, Margarita dedicated her life to service. We will miss you, but your work will continue. pic.twitter.com/v9n5fHNx76

— Mayor Jenny Wilson (@SLCoMayor) October 27, 2020

Her level of energy did not show it, but Satini had a heart issue that required a pacemaker. She tested positive for COVID-19 on Oct. 19 and died unexpectedly on Tuesday.

“She was a big advocate about being safe about it,” John Satini said. “And the very thing she was fighting against is what eventually took her down.”

But her fight continues in communities where she was an advocate for civic engagement, particularly among Pacific Islanders.

“She belonged to no one and she belonged to everyone at the same time,” a woman said during Wednesday’s vigil.

Gov. Gary Herbert was among many leaders and activists who praised Margarita Satini’s life.

“I was deeply saddened to hear that Margarita Satini died today from COVID-19 complications. She was a passionate advocate for her community. To say she was dedicated is an understatement — she gave and gave with everything she had.”

Our prayers are with all who mourn the loss of Margarita Satini tonight. pic.twitter.com/KMZ2dVA7Dd

— Gov. Gary Herbert (@GovHerbert) October 28, 2020

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall called her death “a huge loss to our community.”

A light has gone out in the communities she served, but her legacy shines brightly with those who knew and loved her.

“With Margarita, you learn that truth is the fire that forges character,” John Satini said. “Her thing was, she didn’t care what you did. Just do what’s right.”