YOSEMITE, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – A beloved teacher from Washington State has died following a fall while hiking the John Muir Trail to Yosemite National Park.

According to the Inyo County Search and Rescue, Harris Levinson was reported missing on July 9. Rangers with Sequoia Kings Canyon National Park issued an alert after he failed to retrieve a cache of food.

Levinson planned to start the hike on June 23, intending to hike the John Muir Trail from Whitney Portal to Yosemite National Park. His car was later located at Whitney Portal.

Search teams used Harris Levinson’s satellite messaging device to help locate him. He was found approximately 9,400 feet in the North Fork of Lone Pine Creek, apparently the victim of a fatal fall, according to the Inyo County Search and Rescue.

The death of Harris Levinson prompted a heartfelt response from the community of Vashon in Washington State. According to the Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber, Harris Levinson was beloved for his work as a teacher, youth mentor, and theater-maker. The 61-year-old was described as “legendary” for his generosity.

In a post on social media, the Inyo County Sheriff’s Office and Inyo County Search and Rescue extended their condolences to Mr. Levinson’s family and friends.