Dundurn Press deeply mourns the loss of Walter Pitman, a highly accomplished and impressive Canadian. Walter Pitman was a federal MP and an Ontario MLA, president of Ryerson University, and director of the Ontario Arts Council. He was a Member of the Order of Ontario and an Officer of the Order of Canada. Dundurn knows him best as the author of Elmer Iseler, Music Makers, Louis Applebaum and Victor Feldbrill. 

Walter also found time to be an avid marathoner, skier, sailor, piano player, and choir singer. He was a lover of the arts, and spent much of his free time with beloved wife Florence Ida Collinge exploring and supporting the arts community.

Walter will be remembered by all as a caring, amiable, and generous spirit. He led a full, happy life, and leaves behind many loved ones, including four children, thirteen grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. Walter passed away surrounded by family and friends. He was 89.