Former Kelley Blue Book publisher Bob Kelley, whose family founded the vehicle guide in 1926, died Tuesday at 96 in Indian Wells, Calif., according to an obituary shared by son-in-law Charlie Vogelheim.

Kelley began his auto career at the family’s dealership, Kelley Kar Company, which along with KBB, was founded by his uncle Les Kelley and also run by his father Buster Kelley.

Bob Kelley later managed KBB and became its publisher. According to the obit, under Kelley’s tenure, KBB expanded from used cars to new cars, import vehicles, trucks, motorcycles, collector cars and beyond.

Kelley also led the company’s foray into the internet age and the dawn of KBB.com, which launched in 1995.

“As the Kelley Blue Book editor for 20 years I was blessed to work with Bob as he shared his experience and knowledge. He had a broad understanding of the auto industry respected the role Kelley Blue Book played in providing important information,” Vogelheim said in a statement. “He had a warm personality, quick to smile, a wiz with numbers and humble anytime someone recognized his name or affiliation to the Blue Book.”

Vogelheim added: “Bob was unique in his varied and deep background with used cars. We had many thoughtful conversations regarding nuances of different vehicle values. He took great pride in taking on the challenge of accurately representing all vehicles in a pocket-sized book. That challenge led him to welcome new technologies (computer then internet) which enabled the opportunity to provide more timely and specific valuations.”

Kelley Blue Book was acquired by AutoTrader.com in 2010. Both are now part of Cox Automotive.

In a statement, Cox Automotive said: “Bob Kelley was a true pioneer in the automotive industry. His legacy extends far beyond the pages of Kelley Blue Book. From its humble beginnings to the comprehensive online resource we know today, Bob’s impact has been immeasurable. As we honor Bob’s memory, we also recognize our responsibility to continue building on his legacy. Bob’s passion for informed decision-making will always guide us as we navigate the ever-evolving automotive landscape.”