Bernard Rasch

Bernard Rasch (Berel ben Yerachmiel Ve Faiga), a loving father, grandfather, and architect known for his contributions to heritage preservation and the architectural landscape of Toronto, passed away on January 26, 2025, at the age of 81.

Born on July 14, 1943, to Roy and Fay Rasch in Winnipeg, Bernard earned his Bachelor of Architecture at the University of Manitoba in 1968 before moving to Toronto to establish his architectural firm.

He twice served as President of the Ontario Association of Architects and held leadership roles in heritage preservation. Bernard also shared his knowledge by teaching and writing for design journals and the Toronto Sun column, “Ask the Architect.”

He designed a cenotaph at Mount Sinai Cemetery to honor Jewish soldiers and loved volunteering with organizations like the North York Rotary Club and the Head and Neck Cancer Foundation.

Bernie loved fast cars and bubka. He enjoyed cruising in his orange “General Lee” Dodge Charger and his yellow Corvette. He loved playing games, discussing mysticism and UFOs, and sharing laughter with his family and friends, who will miss him deeply.

He is survived by his daughter, Chloe, and her two children; his son, Jesse, and his wife, Julie, along with their five children; his former wife, Nancy Freedman; his former partner, Joan Gold; and his brother, Michael.

A burial service will take place at Mount Sinai Cemetery, 986 Wilson Avenue, Toronto. Donations can be made to a charity of your choice in Bernard’s honour.