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Former Toronto police chief Bill McCormack has died at the age of 83.
Bill McCormack, who died early Thursday afternoon, was chief from 1989 to 1995, after spending a number of years as a homicide detective before taking the top job.
Four of his five children went on to become police officers. His son, Mike, is the president of the Toronto Police Association.
My family & I are overwhelmed by outpouring of condolences & touched by the recognition of my father's contribution to policing. Thank you
— Toronto Police Association (@TPAca) September 8, 2016
McCormack was born in 1933 in Mauritius and came to Canada in 1950 after serving with the British Merchant Navy.
He received a Queen’s Golden Jubilee medal in 2002 and a Diamond Jubilee medal in 2013.
Current police chief Mark Saunders said McCormack left a tangible legacy in policing.
“He was the first chief that I remember that actually went out into the communities and walked around the communities,” recalled Saunders. “Very personable, understood the bigger picture of holding the office of the chief and was precedent setting in the chiefs that followed because he basically started a chain of events that other chiefs followed.”
“He was one of those leaders that walks among giants.”
“I was very saddened to hear of the passing of former police chief William McCormack, who I had the opportunity to meet many times over the years before, during and after his time as chief,” said Mayor John Tory in a statement. “He will be remembered for his dedication to serving and protecting residents of Toronto. Former chief McCormack also served the police force for many years before he became chief.”
Former mayor Mel Lastman called him “a great chief”.
“Bill McCormack served the people of Toronto with great distinction,” recalled former mayor Art Eggleton. “An honourable man who was always responsive to me as Mayor of Toronto. He was born into the police profession and carried out his responsibilities with considerable distinction.”
Visitation is set for Sunday at the Jerrett Funeral Home in Thornhill from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. while the funeral is scheduled for Monday morning at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Basilica near Queen and Parliament. A book of condolences will also be available at police headquarters.
Agencies/Canadajournal
