Richard Manders of Watford, Ont., a long-time Standardbred owner, breeder, and former trainer-driver, passed away on Sunday, March 28.
Manders passed at St. Joseph's Hospice in Sarnia at age 70 after an eight-month battle against small cell lung cancer. He started in the harness racing industry as a young boy, when his father John (Jack) Manders raced horses all over Ontario, and followed in his father's footsteps along with brothers Raymond (deceased 1989) (Marlene), Robert (Susan), Keith (Mary), and now nephew Scott who has purchased the family farm and is therefore the fourth generation of Manders on the property and still breeding and racing horses.
He is also survived by his loving wife of 32 years Chris (nee Prevett), whom he met while stabled at Windsor Raceway when she was working for Greg Wright; sister Wendy (Joe) Koolen and several nieces and nephews in the Watford area and in the U.S. Predeceased by his parents, John and Mary, brother Raymond, and sister Gloria (late of N.J.).
His horses over the years included Upper Canada, Shower Gift, Confederation Line, Three Black Ties, Icy Welcome, Just Maverick and Casino Classic among others.
His funeral was held Saturday, April 3 at Watford Cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to Dennings Funeral Home of Watford and condolences and memories may be left on their website. There is also a recording of the service which was livestreamed for anyone interested in viewing it.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Richard Manders.