Celebrating the life of Rose Mason

In grief and solidarity with her family and friends, we share the news that our former colleague Rose Mason passed away on August 19, 2022, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Rose Mason began working at McMaster University in 1985. During her years of service, Rose contributed in a variety of capacities, investing a significant portion of her career in the Faculties of Health Sciences and the Faculty of Social Sciences. Most recently, Rose served as the Director of Administration and Finance for the Faculty of Social Sciences, where her aptitude for leadership, organization and care helped enhance the culture and operational excellence of the faculty.

“It saddened all of us in Social Sciences to hear of Rose’s passing,” said Social Sciences Dean Jeremiah Hurley. “Rose was a dedicated leader in the Social Sciences in her position as the Director of Finance and Administration. She worked tirelessly to advance the faculty and was a consummate professional in all that she did. As in her work, she fought her cancer bravely and with dignity and care for those around her.”

Rose began her tenure in the Office of the Dean under the leadership of Charlotte Yates, former Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and current president and vice-chancellor at the University of Guelph.

“Rose’s breadth of financial and human resource expertise, her empathetic and resourceful approach to problem-solving and her calmness alongside a gentle sense of humour made it a pleasure to work with her and call her a friend.

“Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Rose can attest to the love and pride she felt towards her family. We will miss Rose dearly,” added Yates.

An obituary for Rose is posted on the Friscolanti Funeral Home website. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to St. Peter’s Hospice in Hamilton.