Diane Carol Cornell passed away suddenly at the age of 74 on February 25, 2014. She touched an immense number of lives of all ages with her gentle, giving nature, and wisdom.

For over 20 years Diane led hikes for the Club. In addition to numerous hikes in the Ventana Wilderness, Butano State Park, the Forest of Nisene Marks, Byrne Forest, Fall Creek, Wilder Ranch, Henry Cowell, Big Basin, and many more places, For over 20 years Diane led hikes for the Club. In addition to numerous hikes in the Ventana Wilderness, Butano State Park, the Forest of Nisene Marks, Byrne Forest, Fall Creek, Wilder Ranch, Henry Cowell, Big Basin, and many more places, Diane also led Sierra Club National trips to Italy, where her oldest son and his family lives. On each hike Diane not only pointed out special trees and flowers, but also related the history of the area.

A few days before her death, Diane gave a program for the Santa Cruz group together with Lynne and Ray Simpson who also lead National Club trips. Here’s how Lynne described the evening: “Ray gave an overview, I [Lynne] explained how we plan an outing, and then Diane walked to the podium and said, ‘Let me take you on a trip to Italy!’ Her descriptions were enticing; she was vivacious and sparkling; the audience was enraptured.”

Diane is survived by Irvin Lindsey, her partner of 23 years, her sons Craig and daughter-in-law Brunella, her son Brett and daughter-in-law Bambi and grandchildren Elisa, Sam, and Aiden. Contributions may be made in her memory to her nonprofit science school, Outdoor Science Exploration, 150 Lions Field Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95065.