Trot Insider has learned that longtime harness racing owner Colin "Stewart" Cockshutt has passed away.
In 1949 Stew joined his father at Cockshutt Greenhouses to later become owner, he took great pride in “growing the best flowers in all of Canada.” He then got into the horse racing business, co-owning Carmen Hie Stable Inc. Stew and Carmen became the best of friends. Stew loved his horses, going hunting and fishing, playing Burlington Oldtimers hockey and being a member at the Burlington Golf and Country Club. One of his biggest highlights was being inducted into the Oldtimers Hockey Hall of Fame at the age of 88. One of Stew’s favourite memories was his trips fishing to the Northwest Territories with Gary Rich.
Stew was a man who had a great deal of pride. In 1994 Stew and Heide bought the farm in Rockwood, which was his lifelong dream and biggest joy. Stew left us with one last wish, he said “I want everyone to get along with each other, to remember the man I was and for everyone to be happy.”
Stew passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his wife and the people who loved him. He is survived by his wife of 50 years Heide, his sisters Doreen, Sally and Jackie and his children James, Mark (deceased), Cathy, Nikki, Susie and his dog Cooper. Stew loved his children and stated “they created some anxious moments but it was all worth it.” Stew was also loved by his grandchildren, great grandchildren and many friends.
A Memorial Gathering to celebrate Stewart’s Life will be held at Smith's Funeral Home, 1167 Guelph Line (one stop light north of QEW) in Burlington, Ont. on Tuesday (Dec. 14) from 4-8 p.m. (EST). There are no capacity restrictions for the Visitation or Service, however proof of full vaccination is required to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations made to a charity of your choice would be sincerely appreciated.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Stewart Cockshutt.