January 28, 2023 – YOSEMITE, CA —”I knew my destiny when I first experienced Yosemite,” Ansel Adam’s words could not be truer for Yosemite Postmaster John O Reynolds. After decades of Postal Service, Reynolds will be leaving exactly where he started over 44 years ago in the majestic Post Office nestled in Yosemite National Park.
Postmaster John O Reynolds and wife Christine on day he took office in 2012
On Tuesday, January 31, 2023, Yosemite Postmaster John O Reynolds will clock in for the very last time after 44 years of Postal Service. He won’t be leaving without a party though, there will be a special send off at 11:30 a.m. at the Yosemite Post Office, Yosemite National Park, 9017 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389.
“My good fortune to start my Post Office career is where I am ending it, right here in Yosemite National Park,” said Reynolds.
Reynolds started his postal career in the summer of 1979 by chance. He went into the Post Office to visit his mother, who worked at the Yosemite Post Office for 43 years, when the Postmaster approached him about a job.
“My good fortune was the misfortune of the returning casual clerk. He was involved in a motorcycle accident and shattered his leg,” said Reynolds. That’s when the Postmaster at the time asked him if he had a summer job. Reynolds replied he did not.