In Memoriam: Dr. Robert Woodrow
Dr. Robert Woodrow
December 10, 1948 – June 10, 2025
The Canadian Mathematical Society (CMS) mourns the passing of Dr. Robert Woodrow, a dedicated scholar, mentor, and leader whose decades of service helped shape and strengthen the mathematical community of Canada.
Dr. Woodrow was a long standing member of the University of Calgary’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics, where he combined his deep expertise with an unwavering commitment to students and colleagues alike. Within the CMS, he served in countless roles over the years, bringing thoughtful leadership and generous spirit.
“Robert was kind, generous, and wise in the ways of math department politics. He was a close friend, an excellent cook, and a judge of fine wine. It is gratifying to know that throughout his career he was a good friend and helper of the entire Canadian mathematics community.”
From left to right: Graham Wright, Robert Woodrow and Edgar Goodaire (Photo courtesy of Edgar Goodaire)
Dr. Woodrow’s most significant contributions were within the CMS Competitions program. He held multiple terms as Chair of the Canadian Open Mathematics Challenge (COMC) Sub-Committee and played a pivotal role in the Mathematical Competitions Committee. He was a true leader for the COMC, helping to shape and strengthen it into what it is today – a flagship competition of the CMS, recognized around the world and inspiring thousands of students across Canada each year.
Beyond competitions, Dr. Woodrow also contributed to editorial work with Crux Mathematicorum, and served as Faculty Advisor for the CMS Student Committee for many years, mentoring generations of young mathematicians and helping their voices be heard within the Society. In addition, Dr. Woodrow served on the CMS Board of Directors and contributed to the work of award selection and other committees. His recognition as a CMS Fellow Emeritus in 2018 reflects the high regard in which he was held by peers and the lasting impact of his dedication.
From left to right: Richard Guy, Robert Woodrow and Anthony Bonato (Photo courtesy of Anthony Bonato)
“With Robert’s passing, the CMS community lost a true friend. During my time as President, Robert was deeply involved in CMS fundraising, and was a priceless source of sage advice. I will also remember him as an epicure par excellence. I recall one dinner the two of us shared at a restaurant in Charlottetown, with a dazzling array of oysters on the menu. There was never any question of who was going to do the ordering! He will be greatly missed.”
Robert Woodrow (left) and F. Arthur Sherk (right) (Photo courtesy of Edgar Goodaire)
What stands out most about Robert’s legacy is not only the breadth of his service, but the spirit with which he offered it – with kindness, patience, and a genuine commitment to community. He gave countless hours of his time and energy to nurturing mathematical talent across Canada and to strengthening the CMS as a whole. His generosity, guidance, and steady support left a lasting impression on the Society and on the many students and colleagues who were fortunate to work alongside him.
“When I was organising the Student Poster Session and one of our judges backed out last minute, Robert quickly stepped in to fill the role. The Student Committee always knew we could count on him if we needed him. We will miss him and the supportive presence he was on the committee.”
“I cannot remember ever being in the CMS nor can I remember a CMS meeting without Robert Woodrow. He was easy to find. Just listen for the giggle. Cigars and cognac late at night after a full day, at a time when such pleasures were allowed. Deep conversations. He was so generous, always the first with hand on wallet. You couldn't keep up. I had the enormous pleasure once of hosting my dear friend in Niagara Falls. On another occasion, visiting my son in Calgary, Robert prepared a multi-course fabulous meal for five, fit for a king, with unmatched grace and aplomb. There will never be another like him. He is so very missed by so very many.”
From left to right: Robert Woodrow, Edgar Goodaire, Graham Wright, Ed Perkins, Judy Doob, Tom Salisbury, Michael Doob, Joseph Khoury, David Rogers and Gerri Jensen (Photo courtesy of Edgar Goodaire)
“The news of Robert's passing is a profound loss to the entire Canadian mathematical community. Robert was more than a colleague; he was a mentor and a friend, and it was always a joy to work alongside him. His contributions to the Canadian Mathematical Society and the mathematical competitions community were immense. I am incredibly grateful to have worked with him since I started at the CMS in 2018. Robert's knowledge, and his calm, collected demeanor, could solve any problem. Our meetings will not be the same without him, but the CMS is undeniably better for his legacy.”
The CMS is profoundly grateful for Dr. Woodrow’s many contributions and for the example he set as a mathematician, mentor, and friend. His presence will be deeply missed, but his impact will continue to be felt in the generations of students and colleagues he inspired.
Friends and colleagues of Robert Woodrow are warmly invited to join us for a memorial event in Robert’s honour, which will take place during the 2025 CMS Winter Meeting (Toronto, ON) on Saturday, December 6th from 6pm – 7pm at the Chelsea Hotel, Toronto. To register and for more details visit the conference website.
2023 CMS Summer Meeting (Ottawa, ON) From left to right: Dorette Pronk (Chair, CMS Competitions Committee), Termeh Kousha (CMS Executive Director) and Robert Woodrow.
Robert Woodrow, pictured with former CMS President Jacques Hurtubise, receives the Graham Wright Award at the 2010 CMS Winter Meeting (Vancouver, BC).
2006 CMS Summer Meeting (Calgary, AB)
2006 CMS Winter Meeting (Toronto, ON)
2007 CMS Winter Meeting (London, ON)
