In Memoriam: Tribute to Professor Harvey Dyck (1934 – 2025)
The Centre for European and Eurasian Studies mourns the passing of Professor Emeritus Harvey Dyck, a distinguished historian, researcher, and advocate for social justice. He passed away on January 11, 2025, at the age of 90.
Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Mennonite immigrants from Soviet Russia, Dr. Dyck joined the University of Toronto in 1966, where he served as a professor for over three decades. His work focused on Soviet-era history, with a particular emphasis on the experiences of Mennonites under Soviet rule.
Beyond academia, Dr. Dyck was deeply engaged in humanitarian and social justice initiatives. He chaired a Committee at the Toronto United Mennonite Church that sponsored and settled over 50 Vietnamese refugee families and served as President of the University of Toronto Faculty Association, securing landmark gains for faculty.
Dr. Dyck is remembered as a brilliant and compassionate scholar, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His passion for history and unwavering dedication to justice continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.
