Randy Rier
Randy Rier of Hanover, passed away at Chapman House in Owen Sound on Friday, November 8, 2024, in his 71st year. Dear father of Shirley (Richard) Fulcher of Orangeville, Bill (Traci) Holmes of Bolton, Gail (Jim) Knipe of Neustadt, and Karen (Jeff) Beitz of Allan Park. Also survived by grandchildren Tiffany (Michael), Brittany (John), Jacquelyn, Benjamin (Ally), Megan (Louis), Ashton and Owen, his brother Jack of Kitchener, sisters Betty of Hanover and Sharon of Durham and many nieces and nephews. Sadly missed by companion Lynne Davies, his extended family and longtime friends, Bruce and Boom Oliver, Doug Hopkins, Larry and Jacqui Sweiger, Pete Koebel and Gail Murray. Predeceased by his wife Grace (Netzke) of 40 years, sister Dolores, brothers Ted and Larry, his parents Alvin and Loretta (Mawhinney) Rier as well as fur companions Zack and Tug.
Randy was a long time employee of Interforest Ltd. of Durham where he would put in his day, and then to the track in Hanover. Always training a stable of at least 4 horses into the evening, before going home and looking after the mares and foals there. He developed a passion for the horse business helping out his father from a young age. His first horse was J’s Whiskers whom he owned with brothers Jack and Ted. For many years, he and his brother Jack shared in many horses, travelling to various tracks in Ontario often. Most notable horses include, Pretty Bo and Hetties Charm. He was also an accomplished starter, race secretary, paddock judge, and announcer. He served on the Hanover Bentinck and Brant Ag Society as President from 1990 – 1995 and 2002 – 2020.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Randy’s life will take place on Friday, December 6, 2024 at the Neustadt Community Hall from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., service at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to Chapman House or to Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre of the London Health Sciences Foundation, lhsf.ca. Arrangements entrusted to Grey Bruce Cremation and Burial Services. For online condolences please visit their site at greybrucecremation.com.