Roger O'Toole

August 20, 1942 - February 14, 2025

In Loving Memory Of

Dr. Roger O’Toole, a distinguished academic, and loving husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away at Port Perry Place on February 14, 2025. He was 82 years old.

Born in Walton, Liverpool, England, Roger was the eldest son of Francis and Winifred. He was predeceased by his wife, Margaret (née Cutts), and brother, Francis Ronald. Roger's memory will be forever cherished by his loving son George (Annette) and his grandchildren, Max and Iain. He is also survived by his brothers Ken (Ro) and Terry (late Barbara), his nephews Jeff and Chris, his niece Kathryn, and their families. Roger will be greatly missed by his lifelong friends Susie (late Malcolm), as well as Junette and her daughter Margaret.

Roger's passion for learning and education led him to achieve an Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of London in 1963, followed by a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from Leeds University in 1964. His academic journey then brought him to Canada, where he became part of an international scholarship program at McMaster University in Hamilton. It was here that he met his future wife, Margaret, as they pursued their graduate studies in Sociology.

While working on his Ph.D., Roger served as an Assistant Professor at San Diego State University before joining the University of Toronto as a Professor of Sociology in 1969. For the next 39 years, he made significant contributions at both the St. George and Scarborough College campuses, as well as the Centre for Religious Studies. During an academic sabbatical between 1975-1976, Roger held a prestigious Senior Associate Faculty position at St. Anthony’s College, Oxford University, England. His dedication to his students and passion for knowledge are reflected in the many articles and books he authored and edited. Upon retiring in 2008, Roger was awarded the lifetime title of Professor Emeritus at the University of Toronto in recognition of his academic impact.

Roger was a kind and gentle man, loved and admired for his loyalty, compassion, and sense of humor. His greatest joys in life included writing, reading, watching British television and films, taking long walks, visiting museums and galleries, traveling, and spending time with his beloved grandchildren. He cherished moments with family and friends, particularly at their home in the village of Wellington and at Isaiah Tubbs Resort in Prince Edward County.

As Roger reunites with his beloved wife of over 50 years, Margaret, in a private family ceremony at Mount Lawn Funeral Home and Cemetery, his family extends heartfelt gratitude to the PSWs, nurses, and everyone who provided him with care and dignity in his battle with Vascular Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease.

In celebrating Roger O’Toole’s life, his family finds comfort in knowing that his legacy will live on through his scholarly contributions and in the hearts of all those he touched.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.