Longtime harness racing industry participant Waldo “Wally” McIlmurray Jr. passed away on Nov. 19, 2020 at the age of 64.

He was born July 19, 1956, in Detroit, Mich., to the late Waldo and Patricia McIlmurray. Wally was a talented hockey player when he was younger. He was visited by many hockey scouts, and had the skill and opportunity to play professional hockey. Instead, he chose to spend his life doing what he loved, training and driving horses. It was a lifelong passion of Wally’s since childhood. He trained and drove many horses, but he always affectionately remembered his favourite horse, Skip With Joy. When he wasn’t at the racetrack, he enjoyed golf and spending time with his family and grandchildren.

He is survived by his brothers and sisters, Art (Staci Malady) McIlmurray, Lella (Bryan) Montgomery, Adam (J.Z.) Brownlee, and Mandy McIlmurray; his nephews and niece, Kyle, Craig, Adam Jr. and Christie; his longtime companion, Renee Hatfield; and her children, Scott Hatfield and Paige Richards. Wally is also survived by his grandchildren, Lacey and Jaxon. He was preceded in death by his mother and father.

Private family visitation will be held at Phillips Funeral Home, 122 W. Lake Street, South Lyon, Mich. Due to current CDC restrictions, the family encourages online condolences, stories or sharing photographs through Wally’s page at phillipsfuneral.com. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Wally McIlmurray Jr.

(USTA)