Former Toronto police chief Bill McCormack was laid to rest Monday as he was remembered for his love of policing and his commitment to family.
“It is said that when one loses a parent, we in essence lose our past – and what a past it has been,” daughter Kathy told those gathered at St. Paul’s Basilica in downtown Toronto.
“My father would never hesitate to tell you who loved you, or embrace you with one of his heartfelt hugs.”
WATCH: Toronto Police Chief fondly remembers former chief Bill McCormack (Sept. 8)
McCormack was chief of the then-Metropolitan Toronto Police Force from 1989 to 1995.
Mike McCormack, McCormack’s son who also serves as president of the Toronto Police Association, said his father was also a mentor and boss.
“He also taught us to treat all people with respect no matter who they were, where they were from, and what their lot in life was,” Mike said.
READ MORE: Former Toronto police chief Bill McCormack dies
“Whether they were on the street or the most powerful, he would always say ‘You could be any one of them.’ Compassion will always win out over ignorance and arrogance.”
Liberal MP and former Toronto police chief Bill Blair served under McCormack and said he always made himself available for advice.
“I worked for the man for a very long time. He was a great role model and a great mentor, and a great example for all of us,” Blair said.
WATCH: Bill McCormack to be remembered as a great mentor, role model and friend: Bill Blair (Sept. 8)
McCormack died Thursday afternoon at the age of 83 due to undisclosed health issues.
He is survived by wife Jean, children William, Kathy, Mike, Jamie and Lisa along with his 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
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