Veteran Standardbred owner, trainer and driver Stanley Williams of London, Ont. passed away peacefully on Friday, November 21 at the age of 88.
Williams spent his life in the racing industry and served as a director of the Ontario Harness Horse Association for 12 years. In 2010, Williams was recognized with a Living Legend award by the association.
His portrait hangs amongst many of his former friends and colleagues on the Wall of Fame at The Raceway at Western Fair District, and in 2012 he was recognized in the Wallaceburg and District Museum.
In a 2012 ceremony to celebrate the history of horse racing in that area, Stanley attended, dressed in his racing colours from that era, and discussed how he had competed in the last race to be held at the local track known as Saint’s Park in 1944. Stan’s story and photo are now on permanent display at the museum.
The family has arranged a celebration of Williams’ life, which will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, November 23 at Trissa’s Restaurant, located at 4014 Dundas Street, London, Ont.
The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Stanley Williams.
(OHHA)
Stan was a familiar face in
Stan was a familiar face in the paddock at WFR for many years. Our deepest sympathy. The Paul & Mary Jo Fraleigh family.
Stan always had a good story
Stan always had a good story for me. He was a gentleman. RIP Stan it was honor!!!
Condolences to Debby and the
Condolences to Debby and the Williams family on the passing of Stan ;he was an excellent horseman and a very nice man to boot . I got to know Stan many years ago when he raced regularly at Leamington along with his sons Dale and Mark . We visited at least weekly and I have often said it was "the world's longest interview" which eventually resulted in an article in Trot magazine . Many of the older horse people are remembered for a special horse in their career and in Stan's case it was an iron tough mare named Coronation Derby .She raced at every little spot where races were held and did whatever it took to get a cheque . Once while travelling to race at Thorndale Ont. ,Stan's truck broke down so he hitched and drove her the last part of the journey .
Our sincerest condolences to
Our sincerest condolences to the Williams Family. Stan was a good friend and it
was our pleasure to know him. Mary Jane & John Findley.
Rest in Peace Stan.... You
Rest in Peace Stan.... You always were one of my favorite horsemen when, I was race secretary at Connaught park and WFR The Racing business just lost an Icon.... and a VERY nice man Terry Provost