With deep love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Frederick (Rick) John Asals, a cherished father, grandfather, and dear friend to many, who died peacefully in Toronto on September 10, 2025.
Rick was predeceased by his beloved life partner, Bob Haughian, with whom he shared many wonderful years.

His legacy lives on through his family: his children Katharine, Sarah (Pat), and David (Jen); and his grandchildren Benjamin (Sunny), Nolan, Danica, Logan, and Cooper, who will fondly remember his humour and his thoughtful Christmas book selections. He also cared deeply for Bob’s children Andrew (Kimberly) and Maura (Gregg), and grandchildren Madeline, Marcus, Adele and Neil.

Born in Philadelphia in 1935, Rick graduated from the College of William and Mary in 1957 and earned his PhD from Brown University in 1967. In 1968, he moved to Toronto with his former wife, Heather Anne, and began his long and distinguished career as a Professor at New College, University of Toronto.

Rick was a respected scholar whose work included significant contributions to research and writing on Flannery O’Connor and Malcolm Lowry. He authored two notable books: A Good Man is Hard to Find: The Imagination of Extremity and The Making of Malcolm Lowry’s Under the Volcano.

In the 1980s, Rick formed a discussion group, at first with colleagues from the English department and eventually with all who wanted to attend. Affectionately called “The Olde Peculiers”, it is an important weekly event for many members. Always the most tolerant and open-minded of thinkers, Rick presided over expansive discussions of books and articles across many disciplines.

Beyond academia, Rick was a passionate cinephile and a devoted patron of theatre and opera in both Toronto and New York City. He loved to travel, especially to Palm Springs and England, and embraced life with intellect, and a deep appreciation for art and culture.