A shadow passes over Hawai'i's heart today with word that longtime Advertiser columnist and author Bob Krauss has died.

For a full half-century and more, Krauss captured the beauty, the emotion and, at times, the goofiness of his Island home. This midwestern son of a preacher adopted Hawai'i, and indeed the Pacific, as his own backyard.

And in his unique way, Bob managed to capture pieces of what makes Hawai'i special and shared these stories with Advertiser readers through his regular columns.

From his articles on the first kolea sightings of the season to his passion for the maritime museum and restoring the Falls of Clyde to regaling us with tales of vintage Hawai'i, Bob had a way of making it all seem special.

As an author of some 14 books, both humorous and serious, Krauss helped define the story of modern Hawai'i.

Bob certainly knew quite well that his role in the community was an important one. He knew that when he became involved in a story, it took on extra importance.

But his driving characteristic, the thing that made him a great storyteller, was his infinite curiosity, enthusiasm and affection for the people and events he encountered. He approached each day and each assignment with joy and anticipation.

Hawai'i is a fascinating, complex and enduring story. Thanks to Bob Krauss that story will live on for a long time to come.

Aloha, Bob. You will be missed.