Published:
January 22, 2014 01:03 pm EST
Trot Insider has learned that trainer/driver Thomas Bourdeau passed away suddenly on Sunday, January 19 at the age of 60.
Bourdeau passed away while in the backstretch kitchen at Fraser Downs while having breakfast after jogging horses.
Trot Insider will update this notice when information is announced regarding arrangements.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Thomas Bourdeau.
Many the year has passed
Many the year has passed since I last spent time with Tom, but his kindly nature will never be forgotten. When I told my brother of Tom's passing the first thing he said was, "What was that thing Tom used to say when we were in a restaurant"? I said, he would say,"And how are you today young lady" when the waitress approached. The waitress might be in her sixties, that never deterred Tom. It was always "thank you young lady" always polite and mannerly. Always in a sincere fashion. When queried about his good natured and kindly address Tom said, "It never does any harm making someone feel better about themselves". Tom was excellent around horses, very patient and kindly. Not only is it humanity's loss, horses have lost a friend too. John, Neddy, Debra, and Joseph McDaid wish to send our condolences to Tom's family.
Tom was a gentle giant. I
Tom was a gentle giant. I never saw him getting mad at horses or anyone around him. I always heard him laughing and he never had a bad word to say about anyone. He always lent a hand when someone needed it. He will be sorely missed by many. My condolences to Anne and his family.
My thoughts and prayers to
My thoughts and prayers to Tom's family on this sad passing. Tom was one of those guys around the barn who had a true passion for the game and who genuinely seemed to enjoy all aspects of the business, whether it was mucking stalls or walking his horses around the barns. We worked in close proximity with each other at Ladner, Sandown and Fraser Downs and I am proud to say he was my friend. If he was feeling down I wouldn't know it because he was always quick with a "hello" and a smile. Travel well, Tom.