Willem "Bill" Van Katwyk, a former horseman from Keene, Ont., passed away peacefully on Oct. 21, 2024 at Peterborough Regional Health Centre in his 79th year, with his wife and three children at his side.

Bill was an owner, trainer, driver, breeder and blacksmith in the harness racing industry. Some of Bill's favourite horses were Laguna Heat, Wine Photo, Wine Queen, S J Moore and Gertie W Grattan.

Bill was married to his loving wife Marlene (nee Heffernan) for 57 years, the majority of that time spent at their family farm in Otonabee Township. Bill leaves behind his wife Marlene, son Bill Jr. (Yvonne), daughter Lisa Fertile (Doug) and daughter Tara Ridyard (Terry). Bill is predeceased by his father Cornelius and mother Maartje (nee van der wel). Bill leaves behind his brother Peter (Joan-Anne), Tony (Sonia predeceased) and sister Annie.

Papa Bill had 10 grandchildren, Austyn Devlin (Tom), Shayne, Mason and Autumn Fertile, Teighan and Noah van Katwyk Urquhart and Alexis, Keith, Taylor and Chase Ridyard. Papa will be forever remembered for his good-natured sense of humour with his grandkids and his quick wit and numerous one liners. He was fiercely proud of each of them and his legacy will live through them.

As per Bill’s wishes, the family will hold a private service. Donations in Bill’s honour to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Bill Van Katwyk.