Harry Rosen 1931 - 2023

Canadian Retail Icon, Founder of the Harry Rosen Chain of Menswear

Harry Rosen was born and raised in Toronto. His father Abe was in the scrap metal business and his mother Sarah was a homemaker. As a young man he worked in a clothing store where he discovered his true passion for the business. In 1954, a family member offered him a loan for $500.00 and he and his brother Lou opened a menswear store at 407 Parliament Street just north of Gerrard Street in Toronto’s Cabbagetown neighbourhood (currently a dollar store).

By 1961 the store was so successful that he relocated to a larger location in Toronto’s Financial District. Over the years, he opened stores across Canada. His staff was well-trained and worked with him for years. He was a mentor to many in the men’s clothing business.

Harry was a pioneer for his made-to-measure clothing in the men’s wear field. His name became synonymous with the finest quality menswear, customer service, and his attention to detail. He was the first to research and source out Italian designers.

In 1962, he started his “Ask Harry” advertising campaign. His clientele came to him for advise on all things pertaining to men’s fashion. He was a giant influence. Over the years he served generations of families who have shopped at his stores. He had a wonderful reputation and was universally respected.

Harry had a rich life outside of his work. He was a devoted husband, father and a true patriarch. Fitness was important to him and he ran many marathons. He also loved music and studied the banjo and the mandolin.

Philanthropy was important to Harry and he was involved in the Canadian Paraplegic Association, Corporate Fund for Breast Cancer, Cancer Care Fund, Mt. Sinai Friends for Life Campaign, United Way, CAMH, UHN, and was on the Board of Governors of Toronto Metropolitan and Western Universities and Mt. Sinai Hospital.

Harry Rosen will be remembered as a retailer extraordinaire, a true innovator and a great Canadian. He has left a wonderful legacy that will go on decades to come. In 2004, he became a member of the Order of Canada in 2004 and he proudly wore the Order’s pin on his lapel for nearly twenty years.