Trot Insider has learned that horseman Dennis Rich of Powassan, Ont. passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 7 at the age of 65 after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

As per Rich's request, there will be no visitation or service. Cremation arrangement has been entrusted to Hillside Funeral Services, 362 Airport Rd. in North Bay, Ont.

Rich's family would like to send its heartfelt thanks to the nurses of ParaMed, Dr. Ken Runciman and Dr. R. Dosani for the care given to Dennis.

The contents of Dennis' obituary, written by family, appear below.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Dennis Rich.

Rich, Dennis James: August 29, 1947- August 7, 2013 --- It is with sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the death of our dear loving brother, Dennis James Rich on August 7, 2013. He passed away peacefully at his brother’s residence in Powassan after a long courageous struggle with cancer. He indeed understood the redeeming nature of suffering and was ready to pass to the next life. Dennis is predeceased by his father, Francis James Rich, mother Florence Ceceilia Rich and nephew Brayden Maclaughlin. He will be fondly remembered by his brothers and sisters, nieces, nephews and their families and cousins Marissa and Pat Rich and their children whom he considered his second family. He will be sadly missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

Dennis was always a man on the go. He had his ways about him, loved the adventure that life offered him and always worked hard to get the things done in his own way. He was a big man with a big heart and he always strived to help others in need. Dennis’ journey encompassed a life filled with friends, whom he was always willing to help and share his time. His passion for sports and horse racing was an integral part of his life. He enjoyed the challenge of training and racing horses and had many enjoyable moments, both on and off the track. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and sharing his time with family and friends during excursions.

Dennis had an emotional and sentimental side and always had a listening heart. His spirituality was intermingled with his compassion, kindness and love for family and friends. Dennis was a kind, gentle and supportive brother who enjoyed family time and special occasions. He would go out of his way to support others or just listen. He loved life and endured hardship and pain with determination and courage to the very end.

We all will miss Dennis, but his presence will always be with us. We have a loving and merciful God and Dennis had an inherent and loving nature that touched many people throughout his life and we will continue our journey with him in prayer. Dennis was a humble man, a hard worker, loving brother, good friend and a source of kindness. We will miss you Dennis but know that you are in God’s hands. As per his request, there will be no visitation or service. Cremation arrangement entrusted to HILLSIDE FUNERAL SERVICES, 362 Airport Rd. Heartfelt thanks to the nurses of ParaMed, Dr. Ken Runciman and Dr. R. Dosani for the care given to Dennis.