Longtime industry participant Clarence DeVos of Langton, Ont., passed away peacefully on Jan. 20, 2021.
Born on November 28, 1931 in Tillsonburg to the late Arthur and Madeline DeVos, Clarence was an avid harness racing participant who bred and owned primarily trotters. Clarence and his family bred and raced notable horses like million dollar winner Snazzy Millie, Snazzy Hot Rod, Our Kuli Girl, Goosey Cathy, Whatta Hotty among many others.
When Clarence was young, he loved to hunt, and he handed down this passion to his grandchildren. His love for horses led him to the racetrack. He loved having his family and friends join him at the track to cheer on the horses–win or lose–he just loved having everyone with him. He passed this passion on to his son, who will follow in his footsteps. He was well known at the racetrack and made lifelong friends along the way. His favourite saying when someone was leaving was “take care, because I care.”
Clarence was a much-loved husband and best friend for 68 years to Mary (nee Schelstraete) DeVos. And a devoted and loving father and father-in-law to: Cindy (Larry) Erdelac, Terry (Sonia) DeVos, Joni (friend Chris Hall), Cathy (Dave) Goossens. Caring grandfather to: Trevor (Stephanie) Erdelac, Travis (Leisha) Erdelac, Chad (Amanda) Erdelac, Tommy (Elizabeth) DeVos, Matt (friend Cayley VanParys), Grant (Lisa) Goossens, Carly (Brandon) Layman, Cole (friend McKenna Park). Special great-grandfather to: Ryden Erdelac, Brinley Erdelac, Finn Erdelac, Britton Erdelac, Jaxx Erdelac, Brady Goossens, Anne DeVos. Dear brother to: late Mary Lou (Bill) Dufraimont, the late Joe (surviving wife Rachel) DeVos, Cecile (late Rene) Clarysee, Tony (Cathy) DeVos. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Condolences can be sent here.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the friends and family of Clarence DeVos.