Obituary of Rolf Armin George

Distinguished Emeritus Professor of Philosophy Rolf Armin George died peacefully on April 28th, 2025. 

Rolf George was born in Germany on January 6, 1930, growing up in the turbulent times of Nazi Germany and WWII. As one of many displaced people in Europe at the end of the war, at 15 years old, he walked across Germany to rejoin his family in the North. He eventually studied German Literature and History at the University of Muenster, having completed his high school education while working, among other jobs, making chains for ship anchors. 

Professor George first came to the United States on a Fulbright Scholarship in 1953, completing a PhD in Philosophy at Michigan State University in 1961. He met Ann George (nee Higgins) in 1955 and married the love of his life in 1956. Together they had three children, Kate, Julie, and Matthew. After early lecturing roles, Professor George obtained a permanent position in the newly formed Department of Philosophy at the University of Waterloo in 1966, where he worked until his retirement in 1996. 

Professor George was well known for his work on Immanuel Kant and formal logic, among other topics. He was highly regarded for his robust and sympathetic translations of German philosophers, starting with Carnap’s The Logical Structure of the World in 1967 and ending with Bolzano’s four-volume Theory of Science, in collaboration with Paul Rusnock, in 2013. He also wrote on economic and social matters, advocating support for Planned Parenthood and emphasizing the importance of societal assistance in raising children. His teaching was widely admired, with many graduate students maintaining contact with him over the years. Additionally, he held numerous administrative roles at the University of Waterloo, including Head of the Department of Philosophy, Associate Dean, member of the Senate and the Board of Governors. 

Professor George lived a well-rounded life, enjoying convivial dinners and parties with colleagues, endlessly redesigning the family home, extensive woodworking (furniture making), supporting his wife Ann with her apple farm, attending plays, concerts, sailing, skiing and travelling extensively. 

He leaves behind his wife Ann, his children Julie and Matthew, their spouses Simon and Veronica, grandchildren Hannah, Isadore, Paola, and Amelia, great-granddaughter Evelyn, niece Roswitha and nephew Martin, and their families. He was predeceased by his daughter Kate in 2023. He will be missed by his family, friends, and colleagues. 

His wisdom and humour will be deeply missed. 

There will be a private family inurnment at Parkview Cemetery, Waterloo. A time of remembrance for family and friends will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo, on Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. All welcome. 

Donations in memory of Rolf George can be made to the Philosophy Programme, in support of Graduate Scholarships, at the University of Waterloo. Please indicate “Philosophy Fund” when you donate through the secure link here: Make a Gift Cheques can be payable to the University of Waterloo and add the note: Philosophy Fund - Graduate Scholarships in memory of Rolf George. Condolences for the family and donations may be arranged through the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or via www.erbgood.com.