Ottawa, Ontario - 27 January 2015
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on the death of businessman and philanthropist Joseph L. Rotman:
“I was saddened today to hear of the death of Joseph L. Rotman, a highly respected and accomplished businessman and philanthropist who made important contributions to improving the lives of Canadians in a wide range of areas, including health care, education, the arts, philosophy and the sciences.
“On behalf of all Canadians, Laureen and I offer our deepest condolences to Joe’s family, friends and many admirers.
“Mr. Rotman was a champion of life science research in Canada who served as Chair of the Ontario Brain Institute, co-founded the Medical and Related Sciences (MaRS) Discovery District, and provided support and guidance to the Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care to name a few. He was also an important presence in the Canadian art scene, serving as Chair of the Canada Council for the Arts for five years and Chair of the Board of the Art Gallery of Ontario.
“For his considerable contributions to Canada, Joe received several awards, including being appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1995 and inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame as a Companion in May 2009. The Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto and the Rotman Institute of Philosophy – Engaging Science at Western University were named in his honour.
“Joe was a remarkable Canadian who leaves an impressive legacy in the fields of life sciences, arts and business, including the students who will graduate from the schools that bear his name. Canadians mourn his passing and will remember his many achievements.”
