UPEI extends condolences on the passing of Rev. Francis Bolger, professor emeritus

University of Prince Edward Island President and Vice-Chancellor Alaa Abd-El-Aziz issued a statement today on the passing of UPEI Founder and professor emeritus, Reverend Francis W.P. Bolger.

“On behalf of UPEI students, faculty, staff, and alumni, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Father Bolger,” said UPEI President and Vice-Chancellor Alaa Abd-El-Aziz.

During his career, Father Bolger was widely recognized as the unofficial "Dean of Island history," in large part because of his leading role in popularizing the academic study of Prince Edward Island history at the university level. At a time when only national histories were seen to matter, he lobbied UPEI to offer a course in the history of PEI.

“The entire UPEI community is saddened by Father Bolger’s passing, but is heartened that his tremendous contributions through his teaching, service, and dedication to Island history will be remembered forever. We are also so pleased that he was recognized and celebrated as a UPEI Founder just a week before his death,” added President Abd-El-Aziz. Read the citation

Father Bolger passed away at home in Charlottetown on September 28. Flags at the University will fly at half-mast until after his funeral on Tuesday, October 3 at St. Ann’s Church in Hope River. Read the obituary