The University of Toronto community deeply mourns the loss of our Chancellor Emeritus, the Honourable Michael Wilson. A proud and accomplished Commerce alumnus and a Trinity grad, he was our tireless advocate and our global ambassador. A ‘triathlete’ par excellence – in public office, business, and volunteer work – he was a great Canadian who improved the lives of so many. From spearheading public policy of the highest significance to publicly confronting the challenge of mental illness, Michael Wilson was a true champion.
During his six years of incredibly dedicated and energetic service as our ceremonial head, he helped launch tens of thousands of U of T graduates into the next stage of their lives – leaving each one with a warm personal word of congratulations and encouragement. And this was only the culmination of his service to his alma mater, having served previously as Chancellor of Trinity College at U of T, and in so many other capacities over more than six decades.
It is one of the great privileges of my life to have worked closely with Michael Wilson in the advancement of the University and the causes he cared about so deeply. In his comprehensive excellence, his unassuming generosity and his quiet compassion, he will remain a model for us all. He bore the title, “the Honourable”, by virtue of the public offices he held. But the description came spontaneously to all who had the good fortune to know him.
On behalf of the entire University of Toronto community, I extend heartfelt condolences to Michael’s beloved wife Margie and their family at this sad and difficult time. Thank you for sharing your husband, father and grandfather with us so generously.
Meric S. Gertler
President, University of Toronto