Standardbred owner and breeder Dennis "Big Dawg" Fairall, of Windsor, Ont., passed on Friday (Nov. 6) at the age of 67.
Fairall, also a decorated track and field coach, was blessed with his immediate family and an extensive extended family of athletes, coaches and friends. Dennis was a devoted husband to his wife, Janet (née Sivyer), and a loving father to Jeremy (Michael) and Erin (Chad Thibert). He was blessed with two granddaughters, Sophie and Evie, who brought laughter and joy to his heart. Loving brother of Lynne Robertson, the late Robert, and their families.
A dear friend said, "Dennis’ life will not only be measured by the accolades and titles he won, but in the number of lives he influenced over the years. Dennis has been my coach, mentor, father figure and dear friend for as long as I can remember. So much of what I have in my life, both personally and professionally, I owe to Dennis."
To honour Dennis, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Dennis Fairall Track and Field Scholarship at the University of Windsor would be appreciated by the family.
Visitation will take place Thursday (Nov. 12) from 7 to 9 p.m., and Friday (Nov. 13) from 3 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at Families First, 3260 Dougall Ave., South Windsor, Ont. Reservations and personal face coverings are required to attend visitation
A private service will be on Saturday (Nov. 14) and will be live streamed from The University of Windsor Dennis Fairall Fieldhouse at 1 p.m.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the friends and family of Dennis Fairall.