To the editor:

The late Robert Charles McAllister influenced my life from 1981 to when we lost him in 2014. Facing mortality brought out the best in this gentleman. Every time I saw him, during his final three months, left me feeling uplifted by his noble spirit.

He touched lives as a teacher at BHS and Olympic College. Many of his drama, writing, and literature students have gone on to careers in theater, television, film, education, advertising, journalism and authorship. His oversight of writing and drama classes gave students a lifetime of happy memories, plus a foundation for creative expression.

The center of these achievements was the school theater. The founders of Annex Theater, Paradise Theater School founder Erik Van Beuzekom, TV actresses Laura Allen, Dove Cameron (nee Chloe Hosterman), Broadway World Award-winner Justin Lynn, and Emmy winner Chris Kattan trod the boards on that stage. Obie winner and Tony nominee David Zinn designed his first set, at the request of Mr. McAllister. Professional writers like Renee D’Aoust, Hjalmar Olsson, M.D., and Garrett Vance studied creative writing from him.

I propose that we install a plaque, and formally rename the theater to recognize Bob McAllister’s three decades of leadership. It’s an appropriate tribute to him.

BIRKE DUNCAN

Poulsbo