It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Rosalie Segal; Patrons’ Council member, philanthropist, and close friend of the Foundation.
Rosalie and her late husband Joe were pillars of our community. Their legacies are interwoven in the very heart of this city, and their impact was felt well beyond. Having been married for more than 70 years, Joe and Rosalie made it their mission to support causes that were both seen and unseen.
Rosalie was a treasure to many organizations, with numerous community projects having been realized thanks to the dedication of Rosalie and Joe. In fact, for more than two decades, Rosalie quietly helped SFU students with special needs, impacting more than 300 learners. In 2011, Rosalie and Joe pledged $12 million to VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation for the creation of a new purpose-built mental health facility. At the time, it was the largest individual donation to the cause of mental health in BC. This commitment initiated the construction of an $85 million purpose-built mental health facility, the Joseph & Rosalie Segal & Family Health Centre, which stands today as a testament to the couple’s partnership and benevolence.
Rosalie’s greatest pride was undoubtedly her family. Rosalie built her family with the same tenacity her and Joe harnessed when helping to build their community. The values of authenticity, altruism, and servant leadership are evident in the way the Segal children and grandchildren carry on Joe and Rosalie’s legacy. Their son, Gary Segal, is a past Chair of our Board of Directors. Possessing the same commitment to philanthropy as his parents, Gary was key to the success of the Foundation’s $60 million Future of Surgery Campaign, along with several other impactful projects.
Juggy Sihota-Chahil, Board Chair, expressed her profound gratitude to the Segal family:
“Our hearts go out to Gary and his three siblings, Lorne, Sandra and Tracey, along with their children and grandchildren. Rosalie, Joe, and the Segal family have been passionate supporters of the Foundation for decades, impacting thousands of patients through their generosity and leadership. We are forever grateful for their dedication, sage wisdom, and hearts of gold.”
We are sending the Segal family our thoughts, prayers, and heart-felt condolences Thank you, Rosalie, for your many gifts to this world and for the tremendous legacy you have created with your children, grandchildren and great children.
May your memory be a blessing.