Trot Insider has been informed that longtime Standardbred racehorse owner and harness racing fan Alphonsus ‘Al’ Rideout, 76, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 10 after a short battle with cancer.
Loving husband of 53 years to Mary Rideout. Cherished father to Doug (Julie), Darrell and Kevin (Heather). Will be sadly missed by his siblings Sheila, Loretta, Hilda, Betty, Mike, Rick and Jim. Predeceased by his parents Richard and Elizabeth Rideout and his siblings Anne, Marilyn and Sam. Loving papa to Dougie, Dakota, Josh, Jono, Brenden, Brynn, Scott, Billy, Gracie and Austin. Great-papa to Douglas, Makai, Kamdin, Kyler and Kodi.
He will be fondly remembered by his many friends, specifically Pete Hald, his extended family and the horse racing community.
The Rideout family has been in the business for many years. Al’s sons Darrell and Doug have trained horses for years (Doug also drives). Also, both trainer/driver Bill Cass and former ORC judge Paul Cass are brother in law to Al.
Al worked for A&P his whole life, but owned many horses over the years. He could be found multiple nights or weekends watching and wagering at Orangeville Raceway, where his wife, Mary, ran the backstretch kitchen. Al was also a fixture at Barrie, Hanover and Elmira raceways, and, more recently, Georgian Downs and Grand River Raceway. Additionally, if Al wasn't at the track, he was on the couch watching HPItv.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, June 16 from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. at the Shelburne Legion - Museum Room (front hall).
If desired, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or SPCA would be greatly appreciated.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Al Rideout.
Sorry to hear this Mary. I
Sorry to hear this Mary. I remember enjoying many days & nights at Orangeville with Al. Condolences to you Mary & all others -- Lloyd