Malcolm William Eccles
January 31, 1947 - November 30, 2024
How does one capture the essence of Malcolm?
Malcolm was a proud, determined, and loving man with an adventurous spirit and a heart of gold. He had a sharp British wit, an insatiable curiosity, and a wealth of knowledge he delighted in sharing, along with a resolute nature as boundless as the ocean.
Born in Blackburn, England, the family immigrated to Canada when Malcolm was 7 years old, settling in Toronto. Malcolm dedicated over 50 years to the mortgage industry, serving as the proud owner of CIR Mortgage Corp in London, Ontario. He worked tirelessly for the industry to bring about education and change. More than 25 years ago, he played a pivotal role in founding the Independent Mortgage Broker Association, a vital organization established to gain recognition for mortgage brokers and advocate for legislative change. He devoted countless hours to negotiating for the betterment of his industry. In 2015, IMBA joined the national brand of the Canadian Mortgage Brokers Association, which today has over 10 thousand members Canada-wide. His peers remember him as a pioneer and an icon in the mortgage industry.
In his personal life, Malcolm and his soulmate and confidant, CJ (Cathy Walker), were inseparable. Family could find them walking or biking the Thames (often with a dog), at live theatre or a jazz concert or with their good friends, Peter Scott and Margaret St. Louis, enjoying fine food or acting silly. CJ’s backyard was a favourite place for family to gather for a meal or just some fun. Malcolm always loved having family close, often bringing them together with his passion for cooking. He ruled the kitchen with flair, creating meals that were as much about sharing laughter and stories as they were about the food itself. Malcolm and CJ also loved to travel, always going a way less trodden so as best to experience the people.
Malcolm is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Cassandra Varricchio and Danielle Eccles (Ryan Burke). Proud “Papa” to Anthony Varricchio (Kendra), Devon Eccles, and Payge Burke. Beloved “Great Papa” to Christian Varricchio. Malcolm was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Nora Eccles. He is survived by his sisters, Sandra (John) Stevens and Jackie (Cliff) Styles; their children, Darren Stevens and Karen Slater; and his great-niece, Nora.
Malcolm and CJ (Cathy Walker) enjoyed 38 years together. Theirs was a unique and special relationship; one that others only seek. Malcolm shared a special bond with CJ’s children, Matthew (Laurie) and Nathan (Sara) Walker, and was affectionately known as “Uncle Grandpa” to Trent, Ben, Alecia, Jackson, and Owen, who will miss him dearly.
The family would like to thank Parkwood Hospital and their Stroke Outreach Team. We would also like to thank AgeCare for their kindness, compassion and care towards Dad in his final year.
In accordance with Malcolm’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2024, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, where the funeral service will be conducted on Friday, December 6, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. Reception to follow. A private family interment will be held at a later date at Prospect Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly encourages donations in Malcolm’s memory to Diabetes Canada or the Humane Society London & Middlesex
Leave a tribute for Malcolm William Eccles
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We have known Mal for over forty years as a friend and colleague. Mal was a highly respected giant in the Mortgage Brokerage community. Our condolences go out to C J and family in their time of sorrow.
Our most sincere condolences to you Cathy and your family. What wonderful memories you have to hold on to.
So very sorry to hear of Mal's passing. It has been a long struggle for him and now he is free of pain. It was such a pleasure working for him back in 2008 for 3 months. He was such a great guy and a wonderful partner to my friend, Cathy Walker who has been devoted to him for many years and in particular, during these hard times. RIP Mal! My deepest condolences to you Cathy and to all the family at this most difficult time. Take good care my friend. Sending big hugs ..
I first met my old friend Mal in 1981. When you have a good friend for that many years, it's a special thing. My condolences to Mal's family and CJ.
To my mentor: It has been a long journey. You no longer have to endure the pain and suffering. You have left your mark. You are leaving the world a better place, thanks to your honesty, and integrity. My next book should be called "Ten Steps to Becoming Mal Eccles".
So sad to hear the news of the passing of Mal! I worked with Mal for numerous years in banking. He always had a great story to tell me along with a good joke. We could talk for hours about business or our personal interests. I retired in 2019 and list touch with Mal although I thought of him often. My deepest condolences to his family and I will miss him. May he rest in peace!
A donation has been made to Humane Society London & Middlesex. Message from the donator: My heartfelt condolences on the passing of Malcolm.
Very saddened to hear of Mal's passing. A truly kind and generous man who helped his fellow man whenever he could. I owe him and his team at CIR a great deal of gratitude in helping me achieve life long goals. There is no doubt Mal left an impact on the lives of many as expressed in the wonderful obituary. He will be missed.
We are so sorry for your great loss. “So it’s true, when all is said and done, grief is the price we pay for love.” ❤️ We are thinking of you and your family.
A donation has been made to Mal Eccles - Diabetes. Message from the donator: It is with great sadness to hear the passing of Malcolm Eccles, he was one of the distinguished founders of CMBA Ontario. Malcolm was not just a pioneer but also a passionate supporter of our community. His steadfast dedication to the progress of our industry has made a lasting impact on many who knew him. Malcolm's enthusiasm for building relationships and nurturing the development of numerous individuals and organizations will be cherished. He enriched our lives with his insight, generosity, and unyielding quest for quality. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, friends, and everyone who had the honor of knowing him. May you rest in peace, Malcolm. Your presence will be profoundly missed. On Behalf of CMBA Ontario Directors and Staff
Mal, you were a childhood friend. I miss you and always will. I remember mutual escapades, and that you taught me the English art of eating winkles with a pin! It was great to re-connect with you in our retirement, and my heart goes out to CJ and all your family.
Many a good laugh shared with Mal over the years, and many lengthy philosophical and political discussions. I waited too long to reach out and for that I am sorry. Time and distance prevent me attending the service but you will be in my prayers and thoughts. Rest in peace my friend and soar with the angels.
What beautiful words that wonderfully describe your Dad. Danielle, I know I’ve told you dozens of times, your Dad was a lifeline to me when I needed help with a lawyer and a mortgage, and advice I didn’t even know I needed. He helped me get my very first mortgage!! He was always so kind and gentle in his ways but never sugar-coated the truth. I admired and appreciated him for that. I am praying for you, Ryan & the kids, Cass, CJ and their families. Much love and my greatest sympathies xo
A donation has been made to Humane Society London&Middlessex.
Services for Malcolm William Eccles
Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
December 5, 2024 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
December 5, 2024 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Funeral Service will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
December 6, 2024 3:00 pm
Additional Service information
Private family interment will be held at a later date at Prospect Hill Cemetery.
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Mal left a lasting impact on many people, a man of great integrity that genuinely cared about his work and how he could positively impact peoples' lives. He did it his way, a rare thing indeed. Rest easy my friend.
~ Aron Gangbar