Monte Kwinter Cause of Death: What Happened to Monte Kwinter?
The Canadian political landscape mourns the loss of Monte Kwinter, a former Toronto Liberal MPP, who held the record for being the oldest politician in the Ontario Legislature. According to an online death notice, Monte Kwinter has passed away. The veteran politician, who was of Jewish heritage, represented the North York riding of Wilson Heights, later renamed York Centre, from May 1985 to June 2018.
As news of his passing emerged, heartfelt condolences poured in on social media. Michael Levitt, President, and CEO of Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center, and former Liberal MP for York Centre, paid tribute to Kwinter, describing him as a supportive and caring individual. Levitt shared on Twitter, “Saddened to learn that Monte Kwinter has died. His legacy of service will long endure. On a personal note, Monte was the first person to support me when I knocked on his door in 2013 while seeking the York Centre nomination. I will never forget that. May his memory be a blessing.”
Ya’ara Saks, the current Liberal MP for York Centre and parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, also expressed her sorrow at the loss. She described Kwinter as a “beloved community leader” whose impact on York Centre residents would be cherished forever. Saks tweeted, “Saddened to learn of the passing of Monte Kwinter. His legacy of service in #YorkCentre will remain with all of us. He was a beloved community leader whose smile and ‘wave’ was a warm welcome to all who met and worked with him.”
Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Monte McNaughton, shared his condolences, remembering his interactions with Kwinter during their time together in the legislature. He remarked, “Such sad news to hear of Monte Kwinter’s passing. His lifetime of service to others is his legacy. I remember meeting Monte while he was an opposition MPP, when I served as a legislative page. Then I got to know him, and his kindness, while we both served as MPPs together.”
Roman Baber, who succeeded Kwinter as MPP for York Centre when the Progressive Conservatives came to power, also paid tribute. He acknowledged Kwinter’s remarkable service to Canada and his unwavering dedication to putting his constituents first.
Kwinter’s political journey began when he was elected as Minister of Consumer and Commercial Relations and Minister of Financial Institutions in premier David Peterson’s government. Later, he was appointed as Minister of Industry, Trade, and Technology. Over the years, he successfully retained his seat, even amidst the changing political tides.
After serving under different premiers, Kwinter eventually announced in July 2017 that he would not seek re-election due to reported health challenges. Throughout his extensive political career, spanning over three decades, he made significant contributions to his riding and worked alongside three Liberal premiers.
Before entering politics, Monte Kwinter pursued education in diverse fields, attending the Ontario College of Art, Syracuse University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, and the Université de Montréal. He was a real estate agent before embarking on his political journey.
Monte Kwinter’s passing is a loss felt deeply by his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Canadian political community. As we remember his service and dedication to public life, we also extend our sympathies to his loved ones during this difficult time. Monte Kwinter’s memory and legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and leave a lasting impact on the people he served and the country he cherished.