Malcolm William Eccles
January 31, 1947 - November 30, 2024
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 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 7:00–9:00 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. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.westviewfuneralchapel.com.
