We are saddened by the loss of John. He was a great horsemen and well liked and respected by all Our thoughts and prayers go out to Kathleen and family.
JOHN’S OBITUARY
A respected horseman, John was known for his attention to detail, his patience, and his eye for young horses.
Over the course of his Thoroughbred training career, he campaigned numerous New England champions including Bedazzler, Snow Down, Lovethatdirtywater, and Sassy City. Both Sassy City and Lovethatdirtywater received prestigious Horse of the Year honors. He saddled over 300 winners at some of the top tracks throughout the country.
Of the many quality horses he trained, Sassy City held a special place in his heart. Owned by his wife Kathy, the spirited Mare won races across the east coast and second in graded stakes competition in 2011. Her success was a testament to John’s horsemanship.
John enjoyed great success on the racetrack but was also deeply committed to Thoroughbred aftercare and took great pride in watching his horses enjoy retirement at Old Friends, a sanctuary farm in Kentucky.
In 2012, John was honored by the New England Turf Writers Association with the Lou Smith Award for contributions to New England racing and in recognition of his efforts to save a mare he had trained, Our Revival, from slaughter.
A lover of nature, particularly time spent outdoors fishing, John was an avid Bruins and Patriots fan, and rarely missed a game.
You would be hard pressed to find a more decent, honest, and loyal friend, brother, and husband. His passing will leave a hole in our hearts.
Memorial services for John will be held on Monday May 10, 2021 at the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME AND CHAPEL 370 Plantation St. Worcester, Ma 01605. Visitation will be from 4-7pm with a memorial service at 7pm.
Please consider making memorial contributions in John’s memory to Old Friends 1841 Paynes Depot Rd Georgetown KY, 40324 or go to www.oldfriendsequine.org
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