[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 163 (2017), Part 4]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 5573]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE LIFE OF MAX STAUFFER

                                  _____
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 4, 2017

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to the 
life of Max Stauffer, who passed away on March 10, 2017, at the age of 
69. Max was a well-respected business leader who owned the beloved 
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad in Fish Camp, CA, just outside 
Yosemite National Park.
  Max Stauffer was born on June 7, 1947, in Switzerland and immigrated 
to the United States at the age of three. His father, Rudy and mother 
Luce, with the help of Max and his brothers, Guido and Bob, first 
opened the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad in 1965. The railroad 
is a beloved tourist attraction that takes visitors on a four-mile 
scenic excursion through the Sierra National Forest.
  Max oversaw the business for more than 40 years. During his time 
running the popular tourist stop, Max gained the trust and respect of 
the community, as well as visitors from all over the United States. 
Known for his giving spirit, Max dedicated his time to those in need. 
He never denied a request for donations to charity and ensured the 
railroad was involved with the Boys and Girls Club, as well as the 
Make-a-Wish Foundation.
  Max wanted to make an impact on the public and dedicated much of his 
time to making a difference in any way he could. For 20 years he held 
the position of director of the Mountain Area Ski School. He was at one 
time the president of the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau and a board 
member for 30 years. An advocate for education, he was a 22-year 
trustee of the Bass Lake Joint Union School District. Ensuring his time 
and labor was spent giving back to the people, shows the morale and 
great character he held.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the 
great life of my friend Max Stauffer, whose humbleness, compassion, and 
generosity will be greatly missed. Max's memory will live through his 
family and friends, and it is my honor to join them in celebrating his 
impactful life, which will never be forgotten.

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