Longtime harness racing industry participant Dr. John Atack of Perth, Ont. passed away at Carleton Place Hospital on April 30, 2025 at the age of 76.

An esteemed veterinarian, John dedicated his life to the care and well-being of horses. Before entering veterinary medicine, he was an accomplished rider, competing in hunter-jumpers and three-day eventing. His deep understanding and love for horses guided his long and respected career as a veterinarian. He worked with many equine athletes, including Standardbreds, the horses of Ian Millar of Millar Brooke Farm, and those of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

In addition to his veterinary work, John was a passionate horseman who owned and raced Standardbred horses, and even ventured into breeding, further deepening his lifelong connection to the equestrian world.

John was well known for his compassion, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to the animals he cared for. He was a kind and humble gentleman who earned the admiration and respect of colleagues and clients alike.

Outside of his professional life, John enjoyed the quiet pleasures of fishing and spent many enjoyable hours playing a variety of computer games. These simple joys brought him much happiness and peace.

He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Blair & Son Funeral Home in Perth, Ont.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society or to cancer research.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Dr. John Atack.