In Memory of John McAlister, President of FSDPL
December 9, 2011
It is with deep regret that we announce that John McAllister, President of the Friends of the San Diego Public Library, passed away on December 2 [San Diego Union-Tribune obituary].
John was born August 31, 1932, in New York, growing up in the Bronx neighborhood. He and his wife Carol moved to San Diego in the late 1950s and quickly became involved in the community.
John was a longtime Library supporter and advocate, serving as President of the Friends of the San Diego Public Library since 2009. Recently, John helped head successful community-wide efforts to oppose cuts in public funding to the San Diego Public Library system.
“It was an honor to work with John and I am deeply saddened by his death,” said San Diego Public Library Director Deborah Barrow. “His passion for literacy and education helped drive much positive change at the Library. He will be greatly missed.”
John was also an active member of the Immaculata Church, the Boy Scouts of America and the Linda Vista town council. He had an amazing mechanical talent and was always generous in lending a helping hand.
“John’s tireless efforts and generosity were an inspiration to so many,” said Mel Katz, Chair of the San Diego Public Library Foundation. “His impact at the Library and throughout the community will be felt for a long time.”
The Library Foundation has established the John McAllister Memorial Fund at the San Diego Public Library Foundation in honor of John. Memorial gifts to the fund will support the New Central Library.
John is survived by his daughter Diane and son Brian. Read more about John’s broad influence in San Diego here.
