Trot Insider has learned that longtime horseman and race secretary Alan Douglas Armstrong passed away suddenly at his home on the morning of Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2016 at the age of 65.
Alan was born in Owen Sound, Ont. and moved to Winnipeg in 1983 to race his beloved Standardbred horses at Assiniboine Downs. After a few moves throughout Manitoba, Carman was his home for the past five years.
Alan was predeceased by both his parents, Bessie and Harry Armstrong, and his sister, Helen Adams, all of Owen Sound, Ont.
He will be sadly missed by his wife (partner) of 33 years, Jacqueline Dott, his two step-children, Melanie (Myron) Peters and Christopher (Nancy) Dott, and his three precious grandchildren, Samantha, Justin and Tyler. He is also survived by his brothers, Bob (Joyce) and Roger (Marylou), and his sister, Dorothy (Howard) McMann, of Owen Sound, Ont., and his many nieces and nephews.
Alan loved racing and made many friends over the years. In 1996, he reconnected with harness racing in Manitoba after being absent from it for a few years and helped train harness horses for the fair circuit in Manitoba. For the last two years, he had the privilege of being the race secretary for the Manitoba Great Western Circuit.
Alan was known as being very knowledgeable of horses and was a great friend to many. He loved playing cards with friends from both the Standardbred and Thoroughbred industries. He loved all animals and they loved him, especially his latest dog, Riley. He was very well respected by all.
Alan also worked for the Prairie Rose School Division for the past five years doing lawn maintenance, etc.
As per Alan’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. A family gathering will be held at a later date. Should you wish, a donation may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Alan Armstrong.