Standardbred horseman Dean Arnold Stevens, 71, passed away at Victoria Hospital in London, Ont. with his family by his side on Saturday, March 21, 2020.
Dean was the youngest son of the late Louise (McDonald) and Ronald Stevens of Dawn Township. Loving and devoted husband of Darlene (McFadden) Stevens for over 47 happy years.
Cherished and adored by his children, Amy Stevens, Kim (Laurie Minten) Stevens. Loved dearly by his ‘partner’ and ‘pal’ for life, his grandson and namesake Cohen Dean. Sadly missed by brother- and sister-in-laws, Bryon and MaryBeth McFadden; Kevin and Brenda Regnier; nieces and nephews. Brother, and sister-in-law, Jerry and Betty Stevens, and nieces and family. Fondly remembered by beloved aunts and uncles and many cousins. Predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, the late Grant Forsyth and Kathryn (McKerrall) Forsyth.
Dean’s enduring love of horses, first inspired by his father’s passion for Standardbred racing, fuelled a successful breeding, training and racing career under the name Trefoil Farms. Dean’s joy in life was working side by side with his mentor and father Ron, a leading driver and horseman of his time. Horses and the business of racing remained a great love of Dean’s throughout his life. His other great love was his family, to whom he was their rock and best friend and the glue that held everything together. Neighbours and friends knew Dean as an honourable, kind, and generous man who you could always turn to for advice, help and encouragement – no questions asked. A gentleman in the truest sense of the word, Dean was a one-of-a-kind man, son, husband, father and friend, not to be forgotten.
Due to the COVID-19 precautions a private funeral service will be held. A celebration worthy of Dean’s life will be held at a later date. (Please check the Badder Funeral Home website for further information). Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or Dawn Valley United Church would be appreciated. Online donations and condolences may be left at www.badderfuneralhome.com
A celebration of Deans life will be held at a later date (please check back with the website for further details).
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Dean Stevens.
I use to be a neighbour of
I use to be a neighbour of Dean and remember him as a kind, friendly gentleman. My condolences.
One of a kind is right. I
One of a kind is right. I remember Ron and Dean well when I was growing up. I even remember padocking Trefoil Penn at Kawartha one night as a two year old. To the entire Stevens family I am so sorry for your loss. R.I.P. Dean!