Trot Insider has learned that horseman Martin J. Toner, who just celebrated his 65th birthday on Sunday, April 19, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 24 at his residence in Guelph, Ont.
He is survived by his daughters Martina, Elaine, Jeanette; sisters, Anne, Dolores, Lyda; brother Mark; nieces Cortney, Tracey, Cigi; and nephews Kevin, Kerry, Michael, Spencer, Landen.
Marty was an avid Habs fan. His kindness and devotion to horses goes beyond words. He was a driver and trainer in his prime years. His last eight years were spent in the stables with Janice Hubbard and Patrick Keetch. Janice referred to him as her angel with the horses, dogs and cats.
Cremation and a private family memorial service will take place later in the year. A memorial to celebrate Marty's life will be held at Golden Horseshoe Lanes for his friends at a date to be announced.
UPDATE: There will be a memorial for friends and family at the Westover Women's Institute Hall at 11349 Concession 6, L9H-5E1 on Thursday, April 30 from 1-3 p.m. Chaplain Ken Carter will be in attendance to give kind words and prayers. Please join us to celebrate the life of Marty. Following, a tree will be planted at Golden Horseshoe Farms in his memory.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Martin Toner.
Thanks for all the wonderful
Thanks for all the wonderful and kind things everyone said about my father. I wish I had only known he as well as others. It is with great sadness to hear that he had passed away. Rip
I have known Marty since the
I have known Marty since the early days at the old Fair Grounds racetrack in downtown Kingston.... Always a Great Guy and a hard worker ...RIP Marty
It was with great sadness
It was with great sadness when we learned of Marty's passing. Marty was a passionate horseman. With his soft voice and gentle touch horses seemed to just know they could trust Marty. Marty was a great help to our stable when we raced in Ontario. Always lending a hand to make you feel welcome. Many memories and laughs we have shared with Marty will be treasured. We will miss his laugh, and always remember the respect he showed for everyone and every horse. Our thoughts are with Janice and Pat, and Marty's Racing Family, as well as his Birth Family and Friends. Sometimes people who seem quiet and reserved are able to impact us the most not by words but by actions. Marty you will forever remain in our hearts, and we are blessed to have had you touch our lives. Thank you Marty, May You Rest In Peace,
Dawn Hubbard, Sifroi Melanson & All The Ultimate Performers.
Marty was a dedicated worker
Marty was a dedicated worker always ready to do whatever needed to be done. He was a kind and gentle man, I don't think I ever saw him angry. Will miss him. Sympathies to family and friends.
Marty was a great employee
Marty was a great employee and friend for many years. He was very quiet and friendly with everyone. I remember once an owner of mine asked him to help her hook and drive a quarter horse, and as I drove by he asked me if I was going to hook a zebra next week. We had a lot of laughs over the years. I will miss him. Condolences to his family and friends.
So long to a good man and a
So long to a good man and a good friend, you will be missed. Sympathies to the family.
Marty came to work for us as
Marty came to work for us as a young man and we remained good friends through the years. Our deepest sympathies to his daughters.
John & Mary Jane Findley.