Trot Insider has learned that horseman George Durand of Brantford, Ont. passed away on Saturday, September 24 at the age of 76.
Durand passed away after a short stay in a hospice in Brantford.
Durand was a great friend of Standardbred horsepeople for many years with his transport or their racehorses.
McCleister Funeral Home in Brantford is handling the arrangements.
An obituary for Durand appears below.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of George Durand.
The family of George Durand, sadly announces his passing at the Stedman Community Hospice, on Saturday, September 24, 2016 in his 77th year.
Beloved husband of Sheila (Black), loving father of Scott (Jayne Butcher) and Tracey (David Festeryga). Dear brother of Ronald (Dorothy), James (the late Eileen), Marie Lindeman (David). Best friend and dear Grandpa to Spencer and Hayley. He will be greatly missed by his sisters and brothers in-law and his many nieces and nephews.
George farmed in Brant County for 50 years and had a passion for business, flying and horses. He bred and raced Standardbred horses for many years. Thank you to Dr. McNeil and staff, the staff of Stedman Hospice and Erin of Bayshore Nursing. Special thanks to the many family members who provided support to George and Sheila.
Friends may call to pay their respects at a memorial reception at the McCLEISTER FUNERAL HOME, 495 Park Road North, Brantford on Saturday, October 8, 2016 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Cremation has taken place.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Pancreatic Cancer Canada directly (or here) or to a charity of your choice.
Uncle George was like a
Uncle George was like a father to me. We'd have lots of fun times with each other. He introduced me to the world of horse racing. I used to be scared of horses and Uncle George helped to make things alright, after that I became a horse lover. One of his horses he bred on his farm became a favourite of mine. I stayed overnight at Uncle George's farm 2 or 3 times a year. He taught me how to jog a horse around a track. I miss him SO MUCH!!!!! #RIPUncleGeorge
Our condolences to the Durand
Our condolences to the Durand family.
Sad news about one of the
Sad news about one of the good guys in racing. When George picked up one of your horses to ship where ever, a sense of relief came over you knowing a safe trip was ahead. RIP George, will miss you.
It is hard to imagine not
It is hard to imagine not having Uncle George in this world. He was always there to help. Whether I needed advice on buying a tractor, building a barn, or racetrack he had the time to help me. More recently, George enjoyed shipping horses all over Canada and the US, and everyone will agree that he always treated the horses and his customers first class. The happiness and positive attitude he brought everywhere with him will always be remembered. We will all miss you dearly.
Tom Durand (nephew)
I first met George in the
I first met George in the 80's when he was flying his own airplane and we took several trips to sales and races. An entrepreneurial and inquisitive attitude along with his work ethic were what I recall during our many conversations and visits over the years. He was an active promoter for our business and will be missed. My condolences to the family. Rest easy old friend.
So very sad to hear. Sincere
So very sad to hear. Sincere condolences to the family. George was a wonderful guy. He will be missed.
George was a genuine friend,
George was a genuine friend, extremely hard worker and delivered many top horses to our farm. Sincerest condolences to the family. Heaven just got a great one! RIP George, we'll see you on the other side. Chris Coyle, Olive Branch Farm NC