Ronald J. Palagi

Ronald J. Palagi (February 21, 1947 - April 3, 2022) – “We’re On Your Side”



Ronald J. Palagi, who built one of the most prominent personal injury practices in the Midwest, passed away peacefully at his home on April 3, 2022, with family present. He was 75.



Born in Glasgow, MT, to the late Robert J. Palagi and Violet (Helgeson) Palagi, Ron and his older sister, Roberta (“Bobbie”), were later raised in Omaha, NE, where he graduated from Benson High School in 1965. He was an honor student and Eagle Scout. He graduated in 1969 from Wesleyan College and in 1974 from Creighton Law School.



In 1981, he opened his own practice, motivated by a belief that working-class people harmed through the negligence of other individuals or institutions deserved a champion in court. A pioneer in advertising legal services, his slogan said it all: “We’re on your side.”



Ron and his firm went on to win some of the most significant legal awards in the history of the state, including the first million-dollar settlement in a wrongful death case.



He was a larger-than-life figure – an environmental activist, patron of the arts, gourmet cook, a quiet benefactor to countless friends and strangers in need, and most important of all, a deeply caring if occasionally stern father to his daughters, Alisha Palagi, Mia Palagi-Glass (Chris Glass) and Anna Palagi. In addition to his daughters and sister, he is survived by their families, including his beloved twin grandchildren, Emma and Jackson.



Funeral services will be Tuesday, April 12, at St. Margaret Mary’s Church, 6116 Dodge Street. Visitation at 9:30AM with a Mass to follow at 10:30 AM, along with a luncheon at noon at Venue at the Ridge, 20033 Elkhorn Ridge Road. Per Ron’s request, “hot meals – no ‘g.d.’ cold cuts” will be served.