It is a privilege to stand here and speak a few words of tribute to the life and service of Mr. David Rotenberg, who passed away on January 13, 2022.

Politics was Mr. Rotenberg’s passion from a very young age. Born and raised in Toronto, he was interested and engaged in municipal politics even as a child, impressing others with his knowledge of local electoral races. When he went on to post-secondary studies, he followed his passion to the University of Toronto, where he studied political science and economics.

As a young man, Mr. Rotenberg knew that he wanted to be a politician. He worked hard to achieve that goal, bidding for a city councillor position in two municipal elections before he was 28. He was finally successful in 1960, winning a city councillor seat for the first time and beginning a long career in municipal politics that would see him re-elected four more times.

After an unsuccessful bid for mayor, Mr. Rotenberg took a break from politics for a few years before attempting to jump into the provincial arena in 1975. Although initially unsuccessful, Mr. Rotenberg persevered and earned a seat in this chamber in 1977, as a representative for the riding of Wilson Heights here in Toronto. During his time as an MPP, Mr. Rotenberg served as a parliamentary assistant for many years and was appointed to cabinet in 1985.

Apart from politics, Mr. Rotenberg was also very active in his community, serving as president of the Community Hebrew Academy of Toronto and vice-president of the Toronto Jewish Congress.

Those who knew Mr. Rotenberg recognized him as a man who was full of heart and care for his constituents, his community and his family.

Family was a priority for Mr. Rotenberg. Despite all the rigorous demands of a political career, he made sure to be home often for dinner with his wife and two daughters, and he often reserved Fridays as family night.

This dedication to his family is demonstrated by the many friends and family who are here today to honour and remember him. I want to thank you all for being here today.

Mr. David Rotenberg lived a life of service to his community and to his province. His life serves as an exemplary model of public service, and for this, he will always be remembered.