Longtime horseman Angus L. MacDonald, age 77, passed away peacefully at his home in Vernon, New York on April 16, 2024. 

Born on Jan. 14, 1947 in Port Hood, Cape Breton, N.S., the son of Annie and John B. MacDonald moved to Buffalo, New York in 1963, and then to Vernon, New York in the early 1980s, but always kept a warm and close connection to his Cape Breton family and home.  

Angus leaves his best friend and partner of 42 years, Peg Gioseffi, his beloved children Heather and Scott MacDonald, his brother, Colin MacDonald, and his sister, Mary Greenaway. Additionally, he leaves many nieces and nephews, and their numerous wonderful children, who all adored their “Uncle Angie.”  

He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Peggy (Jerome) Bellemore, his brothers Jack and Hughie, and his nephew, Jack Junior.  

Angus was an award-winning trainer and driver of Standardbred horses, racing successfully at courses across North America. He was an inveterate fixer of anything with moving parts and a man who thoroughly enjoyed people. He was a trusted and loyal friend to many, always looking for the best in people. A true Cape Bretoner, he had a way with words, a good story or a timely joke.  

There will be visitation at Malecki Funeral Home, 23 Front Street, Vernon, New York, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, April 19. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Purple Haze Standardbred Adoption Program in Oxford, New York.

Celebrations of Angus’ life and friendships will be held at Vernon Downs, the Nothing Fancy Country Rock Saloon, and in Port Hood, at later dates to be announced. 

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Angus MacDonald.