Jackie Portelance Passes

Trot Insider has learned that Jackie Portelance passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 4, 2010

in her 77th year.

Jackie Portelance was a pioneer in harness racing. She was driving horses in races in the 1950's at the Thorncliffe Park and Dufferin Park racetracks, and was a regular winner. She retired from active participation when she started a family.

Her roots ran deep into the industry with her father owning and training racehorses as well as being instrumental to introducing racing to the fair circuit in Saskatchewan. She was the beloved wife of Henry Portelance, a trainer-driver and a well-respected, sought after blacksmith. He handed these traits down to his son Howard.

Jackie owned her last horse in late 1988 but never stopped following racing. She leaves a great racing heritage with her son being a lifelong racing enthusiast. She fought a long and valiant battle with lung disease before succumbing.

Nee Jackie Sharpe, dear daughter of the late James and Ivy Sharpe, beloved wife of the late Henry Portelance, loving mother to son Howard Portelance ( Lynda Rauscher Portelance ) daughter, Cindy Portelance ( Abel Grandos ) and predeceased son, Gerald Portelance. She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, John, Tammy, Steven, Jason and Randy, and four great grandchildren.

Although a private family ceremony was held, friends may gather for a service in memory of Jackie, Wednesday November 10, 2010 from 10:00 am to service time at 11:00 am at the Whelan Funeral Home, 515 Cooper Street (between Bay & Lyon), Ottawa, Ontario, (613) 233-1488.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Heart/Lung Disease Association.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Jackie Portelance.