Well-respected industry participant Edward (Gus) Lagerquist passed away on Sunday, April 6 at the age of 90.

Gus was a veteran of World War II, and was proud of his military service with the Lorne Scots (Peel Dufferin and Halton Regiment). He was a retired honourary Colonel of the Regiment and served on the Senate and Board of Directors of the Lorne Scots Trust until his passing. In 1953, Gus formed Central Sales with four partners and under his leadership, the company grew to be one of the most successful veterinary supply and pet food companies in Canada. His former employees will greatly miss his guidance and friendship. Gus attended the University of Guelph. He was an honourary alumnus and a proud and generous supporter of the Veterinary College.

Gus was also a great supporter of the Standardbred horse industry by owning harness horses and was a familiar face at the former tracks in Elmira and Orangeville and, more recently, Grand River Raceway. He provided a comfortable pasture for retired police horses Charger, Moon Shadow and Colonel. Gus loved life and he loved people. Young in spirit, he had a huge heart, was incredibly generous and kind. Gus will be remembered for his wit, wisdom, friendship, strong opinions and inability to keep a secret.

Gus passed away peacefully at home, in the arms of his beloved companion of 25 years, Peggy Falvey. He is survived by his daughter Jane McBratney (Tom), son John (Jennifer), and loving daughter Mary; grandchildren Joshua, Caitlin, Brett and Carley Lagerquist and Trevor McBratney (Kailee) and Lia Neufeld (Jarris); and great- grandchildren Tag and Bree Neufeld and Sadie McBratney. He is survived by brothers Tom and Jim and predeceased by Bob, Jack and sister Doreen. He will be missed by his love Peggy, and step-daughters Danna, Rosanne (Paul) and Brenda. Gus was Papa to Aaron, Katherine and Haley. He will be remembered fondly by his former spouse Connie.

Family and friends will be received at the Ward Funeral Home 'Brampton Chapel,' 52 Main Street South (Highway 10), Brampton on Thursday, April 10, 2014 from 1:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held Friday, April 11, 2014 from St. Paul's United Church, 30 Main Street South, Brampton at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gus' memory to Princess Margaret Hospital, Headwaters Healthcare Centre, the Veterinary College in Guelph and the Lorne Scots Trust.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Edward 'Gus' Lagerquist.