Wellness Pioneer Melvin Zuckerman of Canyon Ranch Has Passed

Apr 13th, 2023

Zuckerman (right) is known as one of the early pioneers of the wellness movement, and opened the first Canyon Ranch location in Tucson, Arizona in 1978.

Photo courtesy of Canyon Ranch

Melvin "Mel" Zuckerman, industry leader and founder of the U.S. wellness, lifestyle brand Canyon Ranch, has passed at age 94-years-old.

Zuckerman is known as one of the early pioneers of the wellness movement, and opened the first Canyon Ranch location in Tucson, Arizona in 1978 to help people balance their minds, bodies and spirits.

The wellness pro championed an integrative lifestyle approach to holistic methods and treatments, and drew inspiration from western and eastern healing techniques.

When creating the concept for Canyon Ranch, Zuckerman wanted to rethink and refigure the traditional approach to wellness. The retreat inspired him to begin his mission to provide people with a healthier and happier lifestyle.

Zuckerman and his wife opened the first Canyon Ranch location and after years of ownership, the couple sold the retreat to John Goff, a patron and investor of the brand, in 2017. The pair remained involved by living on the property and interacting with visitors.