Tuesday, May 28, 2024

It is with immense sadness that the Faculty of Law announces the passing of alumnus, lawyer and University of Toronto Professor Emeritus of Mathematics Peter Rosenthal (LLB 1990). He was 82 years old. 

Rosenthal was a professor in the Department of Mathematics in the Faculty of Arts & Science when he decided to pursue an advanced law degree at age 47. He also became an adjunct professor at U of T Law following his graduation. 

His obituary from the Steeles Memorial Chapel reads:

"Peter was an esteemed mathematician, lawyer, and political activist with an unwavering passion for helping others. He was a "red diaper baby" whose social activism was inspired by his mother, Esther, and whose love of mathematics came from his father, Harold. In 1969, already a mathematics professor at the University of Toronto, he was arrested at an anti-Vietnam War demonstration. At his subsequent trial, he successfully defended himself. This inspired him to continue his social activism through the legal system. He worked tirelessly to fight injustice and give a voice to the underprivileged and marginalized members of society, taking cases as far as the Supreme Court of Canada. Peter possessed an innate ability to relate to people from all walks of life, making a monumental impact on his math students, legal clients, family, and friends. Although his work garnered a great deal of attention, he always remained humble, treating everyone with respect and honesty. His convictions never got in the way of his friendships. His devotion to teaching and assisting those in need was an inspiration to the many lives he touched. He was a very loving and caring person. Peter will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure to know him."

Read more about Rosenthal's remarkable life and contributions to math and law: 

Toronto Star: Peter Rosenthal’s passions for law and math make for a beautiful, if different, life

Toronto Life: The Agitator