York humanities Professor and Senior Scholar Emeritus Frank Zingrone died peacefully at his home on Sunday, Dec. 13, following a long illness. He was 76.
A poet, media critic and cultural historian, Prof. Zingrone was instrumental in the creation of communication studies at York. He also taught at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston and was the author of The Media Symplex: At the Edge of Meaning in the New Age of Chaos (Irwin Publishing, 2001) and two books of poetry, including Strange Attraction (Colombo & Company, 2000). He was also the co-editor of Essential McLuhan (House of Anansi Press, 1995).
Right: Prof. Frank Zingrone
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Delia, children Francesca (Stephen Katz), Michael (Trish Bettencourt), Robert, Paul (Gina Zacher) and Joseph (Tara Tovell), grandchildren Samantha, Rachel, Jack, Adam and Dylan, and sisters Mary Lou and Sylvia, executive director of York’s Office of University Events & Community Relations.
The funeral mass was held at Holy Rosary Church, 354 St. Clair Ave. W., with interment at Mount Hope Cemetery, yesterday. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Prof. Zingrone’s memory by contacting the York University Foundation at 416-650-8210. Donations will support the Westview Partnership or children’s literacy initiatives.
York’s flag will continue to fly at half-mast until 1pm today.