With great sadness but fond memories, the family of Mike Belan Sr. of Oil Springs, Ont. has announced his passing on January 23, 2020.
Mike was a legend in farming in the Oil Springs area and did hold ownership of harness horses with his sons Doug & Dennis who still are active in harness racing. Always known for his positive attitude, he would jokingly say “why don’t you get rid of those damn horses" but he didn’t really mean it. From his early days at the old grandstand in Dresden going to races with his neighbour friends to Saturday nights at Hiawatha, Mike was a regular at the racetrack. One great memory was when he would bring his motor home to tracks like Mohawk & Grand River when racing in some sire stakes. He would also slip into the casino for a few rounds on the slots.
Just like many of the great legends of racing like Camluck and Somebeachsomewhere, Mike ran in the Open and never a claimer. Mike loved his family first then farming, fishing and his motor home travelings in which he made many friends from up north to down south. The folks in our small town of Oil Springs will miss seeing him sitting the front window doing his puzzles and traveling around town on his scooter as the 'town sheriff'.
To you guys and gals that work with your dads in horse business, give them a big hug today.
Survived by his wife ”Di” of 63 years and six boys Mike Jr., Pat, Doug, Dennis, Todd & Tony, along with 24 great & grandchildren and counting. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Mike Belan.
RIP sir.
RIP sir.