Joe Dugan Jr., of Smyrna, Del. a longtime First State horseman, passed away on Saturday, May 13 at the age of 50.
The son of Joseph and Madeline Dugan , of Smyrna, was a popular wrestler while at Smyrna high school and became a talented and personable full-time harness horseman upon graduation.
In his teens, young Dugan, representing Brandywine Raceway, won the Harness Tracks of America’s (HTA) National Junior Driving championship. He went on to become an owner, trainer and driver competing primarily at Brandywine, Dover Downs and Harrington in Delaware, and at Rosecroft and Laurel Raceway in Maryland.
While away from the racetrack, Dugan enjoyed fishing in his spare time and spending time with his family and friends.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by a son, Joseph Dugan III (Mackenzie), of Dover, Del; a granddaughter, Elowyn Dugan; six siblings, and numerous nephews and nieces.
A visitation is scheduled for Friday, May 19 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. Polycarp Roman Catholic Parish, 135 Ransom Lane, Smyrna, Del. Interment will follow at Townsend Cemetery, Townsend, Del.
Condolence letters may be sent to fariesfuneralhome.com.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Joe Dugan Jr.
(Dover Downs)