Ron Rosenes Death was a Toronto activist and leader who died on October 21, 2023, after a short illness. He was a prominent figure in the HIV/AIDS movement, the LGBTQ+ community, and the health sector. He was also a recipient of the Order of Canada and several other awards and honors. His death has left a big gap in the Toronto society and beyond.
Who was Ron Rosenes?
Ron Rosenes was born on August 14, 1947, in Toronto, Ontario. He graduated from Carleton University with a degree in French and Russian in 1969. He then moved to Montreal, where he worked as a translator and interpreter for various organizations.
Ron became involved in the HIV/AIDS movement in the early 1980s, when the epidemic was emerging and affecting many of his friends and peers. He joined the AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT) as a volunteer and later became its executive director. He also co-founded the Canadian Treatment Action Council (CTAC), a national organization that advocates for access to treatment and care for people living with HIV.
Ron was also a leader in the LGBTQ+ community, especially in the gay men’s health sector. He served as the chair of the board of directors of the Gay Men’s Sexual Health Alliance of Ontario, a network of organizations that promotes sexual health and well-being among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. He also supported various initiatives and programs that addressed the needs and issues of LGBTQ+ people, such as Pride Toronto, Rainbow Railroad, and HQ Toronto.
Ron was recognized for his contributions and achievements by many institutions and organizations. In 2014, he was appointed as a Member of the Order of Canada, one of the highest civilian honors in the country. He also received the Red Ribbon Award from the Canadian Association for HIV Research, the Glen Hillson Award from CTAC, the Casey Award from Casey House, and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
Ron was married to his partner of 35 years, Bob Leahy, who is also an HIV activist and writer. They lived in Toronto with their dog, Cooper.
Ron Rosenes Death: A Sad Farewell to a Toronto Activist and Leader
How did Ron Rosenes Death?
Ron Rosenes died on October 21, 2023, after a short illness. He was 76 years old. The exact cause of his death was not disclosed, but it was reported that he had pneumonia at the time of his passing.
Ron’s death was announced by his friend and colleague, Sean Hosein, on Facebook. He wrote: “It is with a heavy heart that I share the sad news that my friend and colleague Ron Rosenes died on Saturday, October 21 after a short illness”. He also shared some photos and memories of Ron and praised him for his kindness, generosity, and joyfulness.
Many people expressed their sorrow and condolences on social media, using the hashtag #RonRosenes. They described him as a mentor, a hero, a visionary, and a friend who made a positive difference in the world.
How did the Toronto community react to Ron Rosenes’ death?
The Toronto community reacted to Ron Rosenes’ death with grief and gratitude. Many people paid tribute to him by sending flowers, cards, and donations to his family and to the organizations he supported. Some of Ron’s colleagues and friends also organized a memorial service for him at the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto, where Ron was a member and a volunteer. They shared their stories and songs of Ron and celebrated his legacy.
The Toronto community also honored Ron’s memory by continuing his work and vision. They vowed to keep fighting for HIV/AIDS awareness, prevention, treatment, and care; for LGBTQ+ rights, inclusion, and empowerment; for health equity, justice, and dignity; and for compassion, solidarity, and love.
FAQ
Q: When is Ron Rosenes’ funeral?
A: Ron Rosenes’ funeral will be held on October 28, 2023, at 2:00 pm at the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto. The burial will follow at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Toronto.
Q: How can I donate to Ron Rosenes’ memorial fund?
A: You can donate to Ron Rosenes’ memorial fund by visiting this website or by mailing a check to:
Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto Attn: Ron Rosenes Memorial Fund 115 Simpson Avenue Toronto, ON M4K 1A1
Q: How can I send my condolences to Ron Rosenes’ family?
A: You can send your condolences to Ron Rosenes’ family by signing this online guestbook or by mailing a card to:
The Leahy Family 1234 King Street West Toronto, ON M6K 1G8.