We celebrate the life of Richard Alan Funnell, born in London, Ontario, who passed at Saanich Peninsula Hospital, Vancouver Island, Canada at the age of 70. Richard fought a courageous battle against metastasized cancer.
He lived a fulfilling life as an electrical engineering graduate from McGill University, Montreal. He was a visionary, general manager, senior business executive and inspiring leader in the high-tech sector. He was a strategic thinker and best known for his innovation skills. He was most passionate about collaborating and building diverse teams and creating and executing successful business strategies for large companies. He redefined what it meant to build teams.
Admired and respected by his staff, peers, and colleagues, his work spanned Ontario, Canada; London, England; Silicon Valley, California; and British Columbia, Canada.
Richard was a dedicated husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and friend. He is survived by wife, Cynthia Mallen Funnell; three children, Sean Funnell, Scott Funnell and Kim Gault; brother Robert Funnell and sister Joan Woo; and four grandchildren, Ruby, Grace, Joanna, and Jamie; in-laws, Jocelyne Lauziere, Jimi Mallen, Kevin Mallen and Michele Mallen; nieces, Heidi Ridgway, Genevieve Funnell Lauziere, Kiearra Mallen, Kasey Whalley, Katrina Mallen, Kristy Mallen; and nephews, J L Mallen, Bryan Simpson, Shane Simpson and Deller Mallen.
Richard, a Mensa member, was a man of great intelligence, an avid problem solver and educator to many. No challenge was too great for him. He enjoyed boating, cars, biking, music, tools, wood-working, wine and reading. He loved tinkering in the garage for hours on end. He was also a gifted musician and enjoyed playing the trumpet, acoustic guitar, electric guitar and banjo at different times throughout his life.
He was a volunteer officer of the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron Saanich Peninsula Unit for 14 years; in his younger years, he was a Second Lieutenant in the Canadian Officer Training Corps, Royal Canadian Electrical & Mechanical Engineers. He earned many business certifications throughout his career.
He surely loved spending time on the water in his boat and sitting on his ocean-view home deck with his wife and best friend of 30 years, Cynthia. His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of everyone he interacted with. He will be missed by many.
“If you would like to make a donation to BC Cancer in memory of Richard, your contribution will go toward the Immunotherapy Program. It is the first option on the link page. Thank you.”
https://bccancerfoundation.com/ways-donate/gift-memory
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
26 Responses
I shared my condolences 2 years ago with Cynthia when Richard passed. I came across her note today of his passing, and I’m still saddened by the loss of a bright soul. I read the wonderful words on this page- all true- and cannot add more value to them. I will simply state, “You are missed, Richard,” and continue to be inspired by his impact on so many lives and the role model he was by examples of leadership, kindness, and friendship.
Deepest Condolences to you and your family.
We met him thirteen years ago and he was most helpful in finding us our home.
Cynthia I’m sending you late condolences as I only found out about Richard’s passing by doing some internet research. Your husband was one of my bosses at Xyratex and I still appreciate his encouragement in my work endeavors. He really was extraordinary and again, I’m sending my deepest condolences, if belated.
Cynthia,
I’m so sorry about Richard. I only met him a couple of times and he was always warm and friendly.
Thinking of you,
Susan
Dearest Cynthia, We were incredibly shocked and saddened to learn of Richard’s death. Know that we are praying for you and the family. He was truly your soulmate and best friend. The world has indeed lost a great person.
Dearest Cynthia, My deepest condolences go out to you and your family. Although I never met Richard, I know he must’ve been an amazing man to capture your heart. I’d like to share this poem with you in the hope that it brings you some comfort. AS LONG AS HEARTS REMEMBER As long as hearts remember, As long as hearts still care, We never part with those we love, They’re with us everywhere. So many of our precious memories, Of those we hold dear, Bring peace and comfort to us now, And keep our loved one near. With love, Suzanne