In Memoriam: Arthur Scace (1938-2020)

The University of Toronto community is mourning the passing of Arthur Scace, a lifelong supporter of his alma mater and a greatly valued citizen of the university.

Scace, who died this week with his wife, alumna Susan Scace, by his side, built a powerful legacy as a passionate and dedicated community leader, supporting a range of cultural, educational and social causes.

“Arthur Scace was a great friend of the University of Toronto and a trusted adviser to many leaders in the University, past and present,” President Meric Gertler said. “He was a towering figure in Canadian law, but is equally well known for his leadership, kindness and generous support of dozens of organizations in Toronto and beyond.

“Arthur’s support for students figures prominently in the lasting legacy that he and his wife Susan have established at the University. His impact as a champion of excellence will be felt for generations to come. On behalf of the entire community, I would like to offer our heartfelt condolences to Susan and the entire family.”

After their years as students, the Scaces maintained close ties to U of T, supporting a broad range of causes and projects across the university. Most recently, they were among the first supporters of the university’s COVID-19 Action Fund, which is helping U of T researchers take action against the pandemic.

“The Scaces’ support of this crucial, high-impact research is emblematic of their life and values,” said Vice-President, Advancement David Palmer. “When they heard of the need for support so our researchers could combat the spread of the virus, they immediately stepped forward with significant assistance.

“Everyone who knew Arthur is going to miss him deeply,” Palmer said. “He had a wonderful sense of humour, was unfailingly generous, and had a great capacity for kindness and friendship. He was widely loved and admired, and lived by values we would all do well to emulate.”

Read the complete tribute to Arthur Scace