Longtime harness racing industry participant Thomas Arthur 'Tom' Donald passed away on May 12, 2020 at the age of 79.
For many years, Tom and his wife Freda owned race horses that campaigned primarily at Kawartha Downs. His last two race horses were Houchiegouchiemama and Independent Guy.
Tom worked with, and thought fondly of many of the horsemen around Kawartha, most notably Pete LaRush, Dan Quinn, John Thomson and Tom Riley. He could make friends with anyone and talk for hours. His brother Bill Donald was involved with harness racing for decades and worked alongside Murray Waples for a number of years.
His granddaughter Kimberly has continued working with Standardbreds as an advocate for second careers, and has worked with numerous adoption programs over the past several years, including Go And Play Stable, and now currently operates New Start Standardbred Adoption Program.
Predeceased by his parents, Bill and Alice Donald, and his daughter Patricia Ann Donald. Survived by his wife Freda Donald, his daughter Kathy Hale and his granddaughter Kimberly. Brother of John (Nancy) Donald, Bill (Elaine) Donald, and Jane (Mike) Lea. Brother-In-Law of Muriel Godden (predeceased by John Greaves), Virginia (Wayne) MacAlpine, Lois (Glenn) Bennett, and Sheila (Clare) Robins. He will also be missed by many nieces and nephews.
As per Tom's wishes, no service will take place. As an expression of sympathy, Tom would have chosen to have donations sent to the Bridge Hospice, Warkworth, Ont., in honour of his good friend Chesty Herrington.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Tom Donald.
I’m sorry to hear of Tom’s
I’m sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. I enjoyed talking to him at Kawartha Downs. My condolences to the family.