Aug. 28, 1951-July 18, 2023

Steven Robert Curry, a 71-year-old man from Sunland, was a beloved husband, cherished friend and caring neighbor who died in Death Valley on Tuesday, July 18.

He was born and raised in San Diego on Aug. 28, 1951. He was the only child to the late Robert and Barbara Curry. Growing up in an Air Force family, Steve attended many schools and lived in Arizona and New Jersey as well. Steve no doubt caught his wanderlust as a result of the many moves his family made. Recalling the drive through the Alps on their way to Italy influenced his love for the mountains. Steve’s life embodied a loving, kind spirit and he was a friend to all who he met.

Survived by his wife, Rima Evans Curry, they have been married for 29 years and have lived in Sunland since 1998. He loved living in the local foothills up against the beauty of the local mountains. They had no children.

Steve was retired from the Los Angeles Unified School District where he worked as an electrician for the school system. After retiring, he would continue to help friends and family doing electrical and handyman work. Steve’s expertise and dedication made him a valued professional in his field.

After retiring and spending time with his wife Rima, Steve found joy and solace in the outdoors. This is where his spirit soared. A member of the local Sierra Club – Crescenta Valley Chapter, Steve spent time hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking every chance he could. He loved the outdoors, the adventure, peace and quiet, serenity and freedom that nature has to offer.

Steve’s sudden passing was at Death Valley National Park at the Zabriskie Point trailhead where the temperature was 121°F in Golden Canyon, and the ambient temperature was much higher. Steve was an avid hiker and was well prepared for this hike and it is hoped that even one person can be saved by the lessons learned that the desert heat is unforgiving and can take you at a moment’s notice, no matter how well prepared you are. Steve’s story has been covered by the Los Angeles Times, local television stations, the national news channels and international news coverage. Special thanks to the rangers and the visitors of the Death Valley National Park for performing life-saving measures on Steve.

Steve’s greatest gifts were being kind hearted and a loving good soul who loved others around him, the type of man who would give you the shirt off his back. His laughter and good wit made him a joy to be around, brightening the lives of his family, friends and neighbors.

Steve is survived by his wife Rima, and her brother Joe Lapinskas; Joe’s wife Connie and his niece, Halley who live in West Lafayette, Indiana (they have four grandchildren) as well as many friends and neighbors who are deeply feeling the loss of Steve.

Memorial service will be held locally at sunset at Deukmejian Park, a date yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a Go Fund Me account (https://gofund.me/f826a072) or to the local Sierra Club.