Donald ‘Donnie’ Byrne Passes

Published: April 20, 2017 01:59 pm EDT

Trot Insider has learned that longtime Standardbred owner Donald Patrick ‘Donnie’ Byrne, of Edmonton, Alberta, passed away on Wednesday, April 19 at the age of 81.

Byrne started in the horse business in 1994 with Don Monkman Jr. and stayed loyal to him for over 20 years. Byrne became sick in 2010 at which point he bowed out of the industry.

Donnie’s son, Michael, started the stable back up in January of 2015. Donnie played the role of Michael’s partner in the endeavour, but more importantly his mentor and hero.

Donnie leaves behind his wife, Francoise; son, Michael; daughter Tracey-Lynn; grandchildren, Kayla, Meagan, Alexander and Alexandria; great grandchildren, Tarra, Faith and Hayden

Donnie was a great owner and supporter of racing in Alberta, and was one of the initial investors and supporters in what's now known as Century Downs Casino and Racetrack.

Trot Insider will update this notice with additional information when it is made available.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Donnie Byrne.

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