Dr. Donald Rosenthal helped set up dermatology studies at McMaster University

Dr. Donald Rosenthal, who helped start McMaster University's dermatology division in 1969, died Nov. 27 in Toronto at age 91 and is being remembered by colleagues as a dedicated teacher and advocate.

Dr. Donald Rosenthal, who helped start the dermatology division at McMaster University in 1969, has died. He died Nov. 27 in Toronto at age 91. Colleagues and former students remember him as a teacher, mentor and an outspoken advocate for physicians. He also spoke publicly about sunscreen and skin protection and was active in local medical and civil organizations. Key details: - Helped start McMaster University's dermatology division in 1969 and was later granted the title of professor emeritus when he retired in 2011. - Born April 18, 1934; graduated from the University of Toronto medical school in 1958 and completed dermatology training at Henry Ford in Detroit. - Opened a practice in Hamilton around 1964 and trained dermatologists who came from Europe and Asia. - Served as president of the Hamilton Academy of Medicine in 1986 and spoke against the provincial ban on extra billing at that time. - Received the McMaster Medical Students Council award for teaching excellence in 1986 and an Ontario Medical Association Legend of Medicine Award. - Survived by his wife Carolyn, children Gary, Ken and Julie, eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild; predeceased by his first wife Joan and his son Douglas. Summary: Colleagues say his teaching, mentorship and public advocacy left a lasting impression on McMaster and on dermatology trainees locally and overseas. His passing is noted alongside professional honours and memories of his work on skin protection and medical advocacy. Undetermined at this time.