Date: October 5, 2006

Steven P. Medley, longtime President of the Yosemite Association, died in a single vehicle automobile accident this morning while traveling to work in Yosemite National Park. He was 55 years old.

He served as President of the non-profit Yosemite Association since 1985. The Association supports the National Park Service (NPS) in a myriad of ways. These include donating profits from educational materials to the NPS, providing volunteers and interns, and providing service to the Yosemite community.

"This is a huge loss for the Yosemite family. In addition to Steve's innumerable contributions to the park, he was known for his quick wit, dedication, and sense of accomplishment. This is a tragic loss and Steve will be missed terribly," stated Yosemite National Park Superintendent Mike Tollefson.

Prior to joining the Yosemite Association, Steve worked for the National Park Service as a Park Naturalist, Research Librarian, and Museum Curator. Overall, Steve worked in the park for 35 years.

Medley received a B.A. Degree in Film & Broadcast from Stanford University, a Master of Library Science from the University of Oregon, and a law degree from the J.D. King School of Law at the University of California at Davis. He worked as an attorney in private practice before joining the Yosemite Association. He was raised in Gilroy, California.

During his time at the Yosemite Association, Steve edited and produced over fifty different publications. Many of his books have been recognized with awards and his Complete Guidebook to Yosemite has sold almost 100,000 copies to date.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife Jane, and three sons, Andy, Joe, and Charlie. Memorial services are pending.

Editors note: The Yosemite Association initiates and supports interpretive, educational, research, scientific, and environmental programs in Yosemite National Park, in association with the National Park Service. Authorized by Congress, the Association provides services and direct financial support in order to promote park stewardship and enrich the visitor experience. They can be reached at (209)379-2646 or http://www.yosemite.org