Megan Christine Kelley, age 25, died in a rock climbing accident at Yosemite National Park on August 26th, 2017. She was struck unconscious and felt no fear or pain. She left us as she lived, with an indomitable spirit and passion for life. She is survived by a profoundly loving family and an extensive network of wonderful friends and colleagues.

Megan was born in Seattle on September 30th, 1991. She attended preschool at Annie Wright School before enrolling in Charles Wright Academy, where she would spend thirteen years of her life—making lifelong friends, competing on the tennis court and soccer fields, and holding herself to the highest academic standard.

In school, Megan was an avid student, a cherished friend, and a leader. Between serving as captain of both soccer and tennis teams, participating in student council, and fitting in as many extracurricular activities as she could, she was a force of nature. Her peers remember by her inquisitive mind, huge smile, and contagious laughter. She was always quick to help others in need—be it close friends, younger students, or classmates.

Megan graduated from Charles Wright Academy and matriculated at Claremont McKenna College in California. Claremont fueled her passion for learning, both in and out of the classroom. Megan forged unbreakable friendships, thriving in a community that both challenged her and celebrated her accomplishments. She received a degree in Economics in May 2014.

After college, Megan moved to San Francisco. There, she found work in a marketing role at Trinchero Winery in Sonoma. This first experience empowered her with the skills to take on the competitive Bay Area job landscape, eventually leading to a position at Hired, a tech start-up. Quickly rising in the ranks, Megan found herself over-performing in her role as Media Specialist and earned a promotion only three weeks ago.

Most importantly, Megan loved. She loved fiercely and with her whole heart. She was humble and genuine, with a magnetic, adventurous spirit that inspired those around her. Her passions included cooking and baking (she was often called the "Queen of Baked Goods"), spending time in the outdoors, drinking wine with friends, traveling and snowboarding. She was extremely close to her immediate family: mother, Laurie O. Kelley; father, David "Reed" Kelley; and siblings; Lauren R. Kelley and David "Austin" Kelley; as well as to her boyfriend, Ben Chute, whom she often referred to as a soulmate.

Those close to Megan were in awe of her tremendous spirit and will love without bounds, as she did so well.
Published in San Francisco Chronicle from Sept. 2 to Sept. 7, 2017