The family of horseman H. Clare Wilson of Woodstock, New Brunswick has sadly announced his passing on Friday, January 22.

Born to Gladwin and Sabra Wilson in Plymouth, NB, Clare is survived by his wife of 71 years, Phyllis (Foster);daughter Lesley (Alan) Crowe; son Robert (Shirley) Wilson; four grandsons, Kristopher Crowe, Geoffrey (Jennifer) Crowe, Nicholas (Jana) Crowe and Jason Wilson; and three great grandchildren, Austin, Elyse, and Norah Crowe.

Clare is also survived by his sister Margaret (Robert) Martin, brother Leonard Wilson, brother-in-law Lawrence Foster, brother-in-law Vaughn (Joyce) Foster; as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.

Clare and Phyllis began married life on a farm in Plymouth and moved to Woodstock to pursue business interests which led to the establishment of Wilson’s Equipment Ltd., a business which allowed him to stay in touch with his love of farming.

Having come from a musical family, Clare's love of music soon led to the church choir, where he enjoyed singing for over 40 years. His dedication to the church also led to his serving on several church boards. Clare became involved in his community, as well. He was elected to the Woodstock Town Council in 1958 and later to the District School Board. Clare was a lifelong member of the Woodstock Driving Club and as well served as director of the Driving Club for a period of time.

Clare's love of horses was his passion, having raised, trained and driven more than one hundred horses in his lifetime, including Atlantic Sires Stakes winners and State of Maine champions. His racing took him throughout the Maritimes and New England where he made numerous friends and gained the respect of almost all who met him. He was a true gentleman both on and off the track.

While business afforded Clare many wonderful experiences and trips, his time with friends and family was his greatest joy. Gentle, kind, thoughtful and generous, Clare was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. We will miss him in so many ways.

There will be a celebration of Clare's life at the Woodstock United Baptist church on Friday, January 29 at 3 p.m.

Visitation will take place at Scott's Funeral Home Thursday, January 28 from 2 - 4 p.m. and 7 - 9 p.m.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at Scott's Funeral Home in Woodstock

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Clare Wilson.