ART KING

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ART KING Suddenly, but peacefully, Art passed away Saturday, May 29, 2004 in Langley, BC at age 86. He is survived by his children, Ardelle (Vic Ross), Gherri Lynn (Lloyde Plante) and Bob (Margaret). Grandpa will be remembered and missed by his 12 grandchildren, Brian (Robyn), Darlene, Wayne (Barb), Jeff (Yvette), Scott (Brooke), Brent, Leah (Rodger), Lorne (Robin), Charlie, Don, Derrick and Brent (Corinne) and his seven great-grandchildren, Dylan, Conor, Spencer, Duncan, Tyler, Maggie and Ella. Each of us grandchildren is lucky enough to carry cherished memories of our own special times with Grandpa, of which there were many. Arts passing is also mourned by his sisters, Molly Hossack, Ruth Gardner, Dorothy Webb and Grace Taylor; his sisters-in-law, Muriel Menzies (Maurice) and Joyce King; his brother-in-law Al Calvert; and his many nieces, nephews, cousins and his many friends who always held a special place in his heart. Art was predeceased by his wife, Grace, in 2002, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage; his only brother Ken; sisters, Alice Wheeler and Marg Calvert; brothers-in-law, Jim Wheeler, Basil Webb, Elton Taylor, George Hossack, Dave, Sid and Jack Cumbers, Irv Lowen and Stuart Chandler, and sisters-in-law, Myrt Lowen, Beryl Chandler, Stephie, Kitty and Vi Cumbers. Art was born and raised on Queen Street in St. James. His love of horses began early living only 3 blocks from Polo Park Race Track. He began working on the backstretch for the Morris Brothers and eventually bought a horse and got his trainers license. Art saddled his first winner, Dancing Boy, in 1939. He was also mentioned in Jim Colemans book "Hoofprints On My Heart" as "Kinky King" because of his curly hair. In the late 1940s and early 50s, Art travelled all across North America working for some of Winnipegs top trainers and powerful stables. Dads proudest accomplishment as a horseman was winning the 1967 Osiris Plate with a Manitoba-bred filly, Speedy Minstrel. Another special moment included being Bert Blakes assistant in 1968 when Clique won the Gold Cup - the top handicap race for older horses at Assiniboia Downs. After retiring from training, Art continued to enjoy betting on horse racing both in BC and Winnipeg. He always looked forward to the weekly phone call from Bob where they would discuss all the happenings in the horseracing world. His last bet turned out to be a winning one, as a horse, Shanghied, trained by his good friend Bert Blake, finished first. Dad went out a winner as well...A wise man once said that a man has had a successful life if hes had the love of a good wife - Art had Grace for 62 years, a good dog - he had a collie named Pal for 17 years and a good horse - Art had Get Some More, one of the best horses he ever had. Art and Grace moved to Langley in 1987 where they enjoyed many happy years watching their BC grandchildren grow up. One of the highlights of being a grandfather was the many hours Art spent watching and cheering on his grandchildren in all of their activities and sports. Dad relished his independence and took pride in the fact that he was still living on his own in their retirement trailer at the time of his passing. Rest in peace with Mom now and tell her that we finally have a grey horse! In keeping with Arts wishes, there will be no service held. Flowers gratefully declined. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society or a charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 02, 2004