Standardbred horse owner Norman Wortley passed away on March 8 at the age of 83.

Wortley, the kindest soul, left this earth as quietly and dignified as the ‘gentle’ man that he was. Cherished husband of Barbara for 22 years. Dear father of Brian Wortley of Winnipeg, and proud grandpa of Blaire, Carson and Myles. Predeceased by his former wife, Mary Ann (nee Hotte), parents, George and Kathleen Wortley, brothers, Leonard (Hamilton, Ont.) and Douglas. Norm was a beloved brother of Marguerite and the late Joe Russo, Kathleen and the late Bill Owad, Muriel and the late Larry St. Louis, George and Ruth Wortley, Wayne and Jackie Wortley, Gary and Harriet Wortley (Stratford), and sister-in-law Irene Wortley (St. Mary's). He is also survived by his first wife Carol Hall (nee Meadows), Brian's mother, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Former brother-in-law and dear friend of Paul and Faye Hotte and Barbara Chery.

Norm was born and raised in Windsor, graduated from Patterson Collegiate, and was a resident of LaSalle for many years. Employed by Hiram Walker and Sons Ltd. for over 40 years, he retired in 1993 and remained active in the CAW retirees Local 2027. Norm had a passion for horse racing and was a past-member of the Ontario Racing Commission and the Ontario Harness Racing Association. Norm took great joy in riding his John Deere tractor. He received a constant ribbing remaining a loyal, life-long fan of the Detroit Lions, and the Toronto Maple Leafs. He was a devoted former member of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, Windsor.

Norm was a very special man and the shared memories of happy times will be forever cherished. Heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all who cared for and challenged Norm to experience the best quality of life possible. Among his many angels – Karen Meloche, who became like a member of our family and we are forever grateful to, Melody, Cindy, Jen, Cindy, Allison, Blair, Dawn, and Tammy in Florida. Special thanks also to the entire staff at Richmond Terrace for the wonderful care and compassion shown to Norm. If you so desire, donations to Richmond Terrace (cheques made payable to Richmond Terrace Physio Therapy or Activity Department), or to the Canadian Diabetes Association would be appreciated by the family. In memory of Norman, a bench will be placed on the waterfront, in the Millennium Garden, LaSalle, Ontario. Visitation and a funeral have already taken place. Interment Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Norman Wortley.

(With files from the Windsor Star)