Longtime Standardbred owner John Garfield 'Gary' Smith of Ennismore died peacefully in his sleep at home on December 26, 2016 in his 71st year.

Smith was a farmer, Metal Merchant, past Deputy Reeve of Ennismore and former member of Peterborough County Council. For many years, Gary owned racehorses with trainers the likes of Jamie McEachern, John Thomson and Dagfin Henriksen, racing primarily at Kawartha Downs.

Beloved husband of Gail Murray Smith. Loved and respected father of Tim (Marina) of Ennismore, Julie, Brian (Staci) and Amy of Peterborough. Much adored ‘Pa’ to Owen, Leah, Miles and Lewis Smith. Brother of Sheila Drain (late Vance) of Tweed, Mel (Wendy) of White Rock, Teresa (Paul) Sirman of Kenora, Gordon (Mary) of Burnaby, Bill (Janice) of Peterborough, Peter of Peterborough, Rhonda (Jeff Bond) of Pontypool, Jamie (Stephanie) of Walkerton and Pamela of Peterborough. Missed by Gail’s sons Chris (Amy) Murray of Elora and Brent (Melissa) Murray of Peterborough. Grandpa of Ella, Charlotte and Raelyn Murray. Will also be missed by his farm dog Buster. Predeceased by his parents John Raymond Smith and Teresa Nora McLaren, sister Donna, younger brother Stanley Raymond and two infant brothers.

Gary loved Ennismore, loved being on the land, and most importantly loved his family whom he took particular interest in mentoring and instilling the life skills he held near. Proud of his accomplishments but forever striving to move forward, always with an eye to the future. He leaves a legacy built by his work ethic, determination, intelligence and guile. ‘May the work I’ve done speak for me.’

A visitation will be held at Hendren Funeral Homes, Lakefield Chapel on Thursday, December 29, 2016 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Martin of Tours Roman Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 30, 2016. Interment St. Martin Catholic Cemetery, with a reception to follow in the Church Hall. As expressions of sympathy in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Salvation Army or “Raise the Barn” Fund at Lang Pioneer Village. Friends may send condolences to Gary’s family by visiting hendrenfuneralhome.com or by calling 705-652-3355.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Gary Smith.