It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Abraham Fuks on December 1, 2024. A graduate of 捆绑SM社区鈥檚 Faculty of Medicine in 1970, Dr. Fuks served as a professor in the Department of Medicine and was Dean of the Faculty of Medicine from 1995 to 2006. His tenure as Dean was transformative, establishing the Simulation Centre and shepherding the construction of the Bellini Life Sciences Complex. As Research Integrity Officer and founder of the Office for Respectful Environments, Dr. Fuks set a gold standard for ethical leadership. He was also a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, a member of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences and an Officer of the Order of Canada. Yet those closest to him recall not just his accomplishments but the spirit with which he achieved them.
鈥淗is greatest gifts to us were those related to his nature. Abe was a remarkable leader, mentor, scholar, teacher, role model and friend. Those of us who worked closely with him can recall the sheer pleasure of being in his company, able to benefit from his wisdom, his thoughtfulness and his generosity鈥� said Dr. David Eidelman, who was appointed Chair of Medicine by Dr. Fuks in 2005 and later succeeded him as Dean in 2012. 鈥淎s Dean, I looked forward to my meetings with Abe as the highlight of my day. I miss him greatly鈥�.
Known for his signature bow ties and sharp wit, Dr. Fuks embodied the ideal of the 鈥減hysician-philosopher.鈥� Whether mentoring young colleagues or engaging in deep philosophical debates, he approached every interaction with warmth and humility. Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Fuks was a lover of life. He delighted in sharing meals, fine wine and conversations that bridged the sciences and humanities. Dr. Phil Gold, a lifelong friend and colleague, described him as 鈥渁 fine man and a good friend鈥� who pursued every role with 鈥渆xcellence and menschlichkeit (humanity)鈥�.
For many, Dr. Fuks鈥檚 greatest legacy lies in the lives he touched. Former students and colleagues recall his mentorship as life-changing. 鈥淗e was a gifted teacher, a visionary leader and an extraordinary human being,鈥� said Dr. David Rosenblatt, a close friend and colleague. 鈥淗is grasp of what is important in this world, combined with his great love for family and friends, made him truly special鈥�.
Tributes have poured in since his passing, with over 200 received in the first few days alone. Dr. Fuks鈥檚 legacy reminds us that leadership is not just about what we achieve but how we touch the lives of others.
He leaves behind his beloved family, countless colleagues, and friends whose lives are forever enriched by his presence. May his memory be a blessing and a source of comfort to all who knew him.
Photo: Owen Egan and Joni Dufour