A longtime advocate of harness racing and a strong participant as owner and breeder, Harry Loyens of Ilderton, Ont. passed away on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023 at London Health Sciences Centre – University Hospital in London, Ont., at the age of 86.

Harry was a longtime owner of Standardbred racehorses, starting out 45 years ago with brothers Bill and the late Frank under the name Lobro Stables. Harry shared ownership of many great horses over the years, such as multiple stakes winner Survivor Gold and millionaire pacer Nickle Bag. Harry drove horses in his earlier years and loved training horses in the early morning at the farm track owned by the Loyens family.

Beloved husband for over 65 years to Raisa (Dykyj) Loyens. Cherished father of Debbie (Don) Riddell. Proud grandfather of David (Robin) and Scott (Angela), “Opa” of Avery and Jordan, and step-great-grandfather of Nick and Desiree (Rob). Dear brother of Bill (Paulette), Nellie (Albert) and Tony (Jacquie), and brother-in-law of Linda and Diane. Fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his sister Antonnette, brothers Frank and Eddie, sister-in-law Violet, parents John and Jacoba (Roozen) Loyens, and his parents-in-law Bill and Lena Dykyj.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at LHSC – University Hospital for the care provided to Harry.

Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 223 Main Street South, Lucan, ON, on Wednesday, Jan. 3 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A private funeral service will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, Lucan. Cremation to follow with private interment at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Lucan.

Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, Diabetes Canada or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Harry Loyens.