Longtime racing official Donald A. Knapton, 77, passed peacefully at The Inn at Village Square on Friday (Nov. 6).
He was born in Westbrook, Maine, on Dec. 5, 1942, to Donald and Barbara (Paine) Knapton.
Knapton graduated from Gorham High School and Gorham State Teachers College. He then taught at Massabesic Junior High for 16 years before turning to horse racing. He started following the races in high school at Gorham Raceway. He went on to serve as race secretary at Windsor Raceway in Ontario and then Dover Downs in Dover, Del.
He loved following sports, especially Boston teams. When his nephews played in high school he never missed a game.
Knapton is survived by his brother, Kenneth (Kim); nephews, Jeffery (Jackie), Gregory (Karen), Curtis, Noah and Lucas; and nieces, Alex Jauregui and Erin. He was preceded in death by his parents.
The family would like to thank the dedicated and loving caregivers at the Inn at Village Square.
A graveside service will take place in the spring.
To express condolences and to participate in his online tribute, please visit www.DolbyBlaisSegee.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Residents Activity Fund, The Inn at Village Square, 123 School St., Gorham, ME 04038.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the friends and family of Donald Knapton.
(USTA)