Toronto, Ontario – The vibrant and compassionate soul of the Toronto community dimmed on Saturday, October 21, 2023, with the passing of Ron Rosenes, an esteemed advocate and activist. Ron, who dedicated his life to fighting for HIV/AIDS awareness and championing LGBTQ+ rights, succumbed to a brief illness. The news was shared via a heartfelt Facebook post on Sunday, leaving friends and colleagues mourning the loss of a kind, generous, and joyful man.
Ron Rosenes pursued his education at Carleton University from 1965 to 1969, where he earned his B.A., M.A., and LLD (hon) in French and Russian; Slavic Languages and Literature. Later, in 1970 to 1971, he furthered his studies at the University of Toronto. Ron’s contributions to Toronto’s vibrant gay community were immeasurable, spanning several decades, despite his own 40-year battle with HIV. His remarkable legacy extended across various spheres, encompassing active involvement in HIV/AIDS and LGBTIQ advocacy, as well as his dedicated participation in health organizations.
His tireless efforts transformed the lives of countless individuals grappling with HIV, leaving an enduring impact in Toronto and beyond. Ron’s advocacy, coupled with his philanthropic pursuits, set him apart as an exceptional individual. His dedication as a volunteer, spokesperson, and fundraiser was pivotal in garnering support for numerous organizations.
George Smitherman shared a post on fb on the death of Ron Rosenes:
Today marks the 20 th anniversary of the swearing in of the McGuinty Government and my role as Minister of Health. Learning that Ron Rosenes had passed really hit me hard. Like all the others who have commented on his life indicated he wasn’t someone that you got to know just a little. With his trusty twin power source Louise Binder they never stopped advocating for PHAs here and everywhere. Our relationship helped to make sure that the World Aids Conference here in Toronto provided a platform for community participation. I think that is an apt symbol for the McGunity Health Care commitment towards community health care. From aging at home, doubling community health centre’s and creating team based Family Health Teams and so many more I could list you can see the fingerprints of people like Ron Rosenes and Louise not to mention community connected institutions like Wellesley Hospital, Women’s College and the inspiring Regent Park Community Health Centre. Tribute to Ron and his #love for community
Ron Rosenes held pivotal roles in vital organizations such as ACT (the AIDS Committee of Toronto), the HIV Legal Network, and the Canadian Treatment Action Council, among others. His contributions to Casey House and HQ Toronto, a pioneering health hub catering to Two-Spirit individuals, individuals identifying as male, and the transgender and non-binary community, highlighted his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and access to essential resources. In 2014, Ron’s relentless advocacy work earned him the prestigious title of Member of the Order of Canada, a testament to his unwavering dedication.
Within the HIV community, Ron’s contributions were widely recognized, leading to his induction into the Ontario AIDS Network Honour Roll. He received numerous accolades, including The Casey Award, the Glen Hillson Award of Excellence from the Canadian Treatment Action Council, the Red Ribbon Award from the Canadian Association for HIV Research, and the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal for his outstanding services.
Ron Rosenes will be remembered not only for his remarkable accomplishments but also for his boundless compassion, unwavering determination, and enduring impact on the lives he touched.
