Trot Insider has learned that longtime Flamboro Downs-area trainer Brian Kempton passed away at the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Grimsby, Ont. this past Saturday (June 16) at the age of 71.
Kempton earned an excellent reputation in the Standardbred racing industry during his training career, which spanned more than 40 years. In his time around the horses, he mentored and supported a number of up-and-coming horsepeople.
Kempton was decorated numerous times during his 30-year career as a professional firefighter in Hamilton, Ont. He was also an accomplished sportsman, as he coached soccer and hockey for years after playing both sports at semi-professional levels. He held a 2nd Dan black belt in the Botoku-Kai school of Karate and studied Tai-Chi extensively.
Brian was the beloved husband to Elaine Kempton for 46 years and father to Shayne Kempton and Dawn LeNoury. Cherished grandfather to Madison LeNoury, father-in-Law to Jason LeNoury, brother to the late Allan Kempton and brother-in-law to the late Peggy Moffat, George (and Janet) Heard and Jim (and the late Peg) Heard. Proud and beloved uncle to Sheila Moffat-Koczka.
Following cremation, a celebration of Brian’s life will take place at the Grimsby Pumphouse (447 Elizabeth St., Grimsby) on Friday, June 29 from 4 - 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family would sincerely appreciate donations made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
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Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Brian Kempton.