Francis Gilhooly Passes

Published: September 19, 2017 03:16 pm EDT

Horseman Francis E. Gilhooly, 87, a lifelong resident of Attica and Alexander, NY, passed away on Tuesday, September 12.

He was born on August 17, 1930, a son of the late Francis and Louise (‘Good’) Gilhooly.

Gilhooly saw combat in the Korean War, and was retired from the U.S. Postal Service, where he served as postmaster in Alexander, Attica, and Corfu. He was a member of the U.S. Trotting Association, Western New York Harness Horsemen’s Association, and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Gilhooly’s passion in life was harness racing, and he raced many horses at Batavia Downs and Buffalo Raceway. He will be fondly remembered for his love of horses and his kind and gentle treatment of all animals.

Gilhooly took great pleasure in his home and found a special friendship with his son, Michael.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Peggy; son, Michael; daughter, Judy McClurg; stepson, Todd (Jennifer) Baker; stepdaughter, Mary Baker; grandchildren, Ryan McClurg, Melissa McClurg, Kelly (Walter) Rao and Alexander Baker; great-grandchildren, Hazel Rao and Mulligan Rao; sisters, Mary Pell and Helen (Richard) Cecere; sister-in-law, Carol; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Daniel (Diane); brother, George; and brother-in-law, Donald Pell.

A memorial mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday (September 23) at SS Joachim and Anne Parish (St. Vincent Site), 50 East Avenue, Attica.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Francis Gilhooly

(Batavia Downs)

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