Author and poet Bob McAllister, a Bainbridge Island icon, passed away at his home on Bainbridge on Monday, Aug. 18. He was 73.

McAllister was a much loved and respected mentor for writers and actors for more than a generation.

He moved to the island in 1968, and taught English and drama at Bainbridge High for 35 years. During that time, he produced more than a hundred stage productions.

An Island Treasure honoree, McAllister also taught English and communications at Olympic College, and volunteered as a set-builder for Bainbridge Performing Arts.

He is survived by his wife, Merry, and his four daughters, Anna, Kristin, Heidi and Molly.

According to Cook Family Funeral Home, a memorial service directed by McAllister himself will be announced at a later date.