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PAUL RUTHERFORD
RUTHERFORD
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PAUL RUTHERFORD

PAUL RUTHERFORD

PAUL RUTHERFORD obituary

PAUL RUTHERFORD Obituary

(February 22, 1944 – September 5, 2025) It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Paul Rutherford, who died peacefully, after a short battle with cancer on September 5, 2025. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Margarita Orszag, whom he missed very much. He was a wonderful father and was dearly loved by his two daughters, Jennifer (Savino) and Stephanie (Darcy); and his stepson, Zoltan (Hoa). He will also be missed by his four grandchildren: Michael, Sophia, Mahon, and Desmond. A brilliant scholar and thinker, Paul was a historian of popular culture and mass media in the Department of History at the University of Toronto for 43 years. He was the author of seven books and editor of two volumes that explored this academic space. His ideas profoundly influenced the field of cultural history, emphasizing the role of mass media in shaping society. In so doing, he advanced the field of cultural theory in Canada. His intellectual depth and insight will be greatly missed. A memorial will be held this autumn. Donations can be made in his name to the Canadian Association of MAiD Assessors and Providers.

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Published by The Globe and Mail from Sep. 13 to Sep. 17, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for PAUL RUTHERFORD

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Bruce Retallack

November 20, 2025

Paul was my thesis advisor for the seven year journey of my dissertation, 2000-2007. He was a constant inspiration and rigorous critic, who made sure my work was the best it could be. I still have most of his books, and find myself returning to them regularly. He was brilliant, but also unflaggingly kind and supportive. I, and the rest of the UofT community will sorely miss him.

Stephanie Rutherford

September 20, 2025

Hello - for those interested, a memorial will be held on Nov 21st from 6:30-8:30 at the UofT faculty club (41 Willcocks St). All are welcome.

Christopher duvernet

September 15, 2025

Professor Rutherford was my phd supervisor and was an absolute pleasure to work with and learn from.he was a great inspiration in every respect and we shared an avid interest in mass media.i often thought of him and wish I had expressed my gratitude while he was alive.he was a trailblazer in his field and leaves a great void in academe.he will be missed by colleagues and students .Christopher DuVernet ba.hons.,ma llb phd.kindly advise as to when and where the memorial will be.

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