Condolence From: Louise
Condolence: We are all so shocked, and saddened to hear of this tragic loss. As a former member of a neighbouring barn (GMEC) we spent many happy schooling hours at Equus, I took lessons w/MH, and all we spent many years competing, volunteering, and enjoying the shows at Equus. I fondly remember doing all our OEF rider level testing with MH as the adjudicator, she was firm, friendly, and determined we were all going to be better riders, and members of the horse community. From all of us who enjoyed the pleasure - we will miss you, and our deepest condolences to your families left to endure the passing.
Friday October 03, 2014
Condolence From: Pat Buczkowski
Condolence: MH had the heart of a lion - big, courageous and generous. She rescued people, horses, dogs and any other creature in need. She was there for you through thick or thin, no matter what. Her joy of life was contagious. MH was a great friend and will be truly missed.
Deepest condolences to her sons, and the rest of her family. Sending you peace and comfort in this very difficult time.
Friday October 03, 2014
Condolence From: Coaches Association of Ontario
Condolence: Our deepest condolences to the family of MH at this time. Please take some comfort in knowing that MH will remain in our hearts and minds and she positively influenced and taught so many Coaches for many many years. She stepped up so many times without hesitation for Coaches and helped develop their skills and knowledge. She was always quick to say "yes" to requests to take on a new workshop and her commitment to the NCCP program was one of the best in the Province of Ontario. Our staff at the Coaches Association of Ontario will miss working with her as we go forward. We won't forget her contribution.
Friday October 03, 2014
Condolence From: Heather McClinchey
Condolence: A terrible tragedy has taken MH away from us far too soon. A grassroots champion for the sport of eventing, she will be missed by so many, including myself. I am so appreciative of the facility that she built and the shows that she organized which allowed me to gain experience in eventing. I have wonderful memories of being at Equus 3D. All the best to you during this sad time. With gratitude and condolences, Heather
Friday October 03, 2014
Condolence From: Barb Blanchard
Condolence: I remain in shock and disbelief of the tragic passing of MH and Steve. My deepest and heartfelt sympathy to the families of both, especially Derek and Sebastian. I can only imagine the pain you are all feeling. I was a boarder and student at Equus quite a few years ago but your mother was such a kind and helpful and knowledgeable person and she will be so terribly missed in the equine world.
Friday October 03, 2014
Condolence From: Dani Belec
Condolence: MH may you always be looking down on everyone you have touched. Your enthusiasm to makes us better people/riders will never be forgotten.
Friday October 03, 2014
Condolence From: Kathy
Condolence: MH and Steve were amazing people and they will be greatly missed. I have known MH since I was little and she always was so kind to me and taught me everything I know today. MH and Steve will always remain apart of us for the amazing things they did for everyone... My heart goes out to their families
Friday October 03, 2014
Condolence From: Samantha Page
Condolence: Boys....words cannot help to ease your pain but just know your parents are very much loved and will forever be missed. The only thing I can say is try to look up often and smile. You were both quite young when I met your mom during a mentoring session at the farm and I recall how proud she was of you showing us the video where you rode for the testing purposes in French. Please utilize the equestrian community if you need anything.
Friday October 03, 2014
Condolence From: Deb & James McMahon
Condolence: Dear Derek and Sebastien, we met your mom when you (Derek) were about a year
old and Sebastien was just a twinkle in your dad's eye. (about 1993).
Thanks M.H. for everything. Thank you for marrying a great guy named Steve
(Ratz). Thank you for bringing two wonderful babies into this world and
raising them into fine, caring, upstanding young men. Thank you for your
vision of Equus 3 D Farm, and creating a wonderful Eventing facility.
Thank you for all your hard work every day of every year. Your dedication
to coaching riders, training horses, educating young minds, mentoring and
competing. For encouraging all of us, to be the best we could be. Thank you
for being a wonderful wife, mother, teacher and especially a great friend
to all. Life won't be the same without you.
To Derek, Sebastien, The Lessard and Ratz families our most heartfelt
condolences.
Debbie and James McMahon (formerly of Shelburne, now residing in Clayton,
Ont. (Ottawa)
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Winteler-Morson family
Condolence: our deepest sympathies to the family! Two wonderful people with a positive impact on both the equestrian and educational worlds.
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Armand & Birgit Valkenborg
Condolence: We are so sorry for your loss. The Equestrian community will miss two wonderful, special people forever.
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Marcel Beaulieu
Condolence: Chers M & Mme Lessard, Guy, Derek et Sébastien,
Je suis atterré par la terrible nouvelle.
Je suis de tout cœur avec vous.
Mes plus sincères condoléances.
Marcel Beaulieu
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Melissa Laird
Condolence: I am so so sorry for your loss Derrick and Sebastian. I have very fond memories of competing at your farm and chatting with MH, always generous and happy and funny. She was an incredible woman and we all owe her so much for her dedication to our sport of eventing. Though I never met your father, from what I'm reading he was just as amazing as your mom was and I hope you two can find comfort in the support of all the other people around you. We mourn with you, even though our hurt will never match your own. Cherish the memories and take care of yourselves. Your parents were one in a million.
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Joni Lynn Peters
Condolence: My condolences to the families of MH and Steve. I knew MH many years ago, and she has left a tremendously positive impression. She has created a powerful legacy with her energy, generosity, and kindness. You are in my thoughts.
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Karen and Chrissy Jackson
Condolence: Our deepest sympathy goes out to Derek and Sebastian we have known MH for several years she helped start up the Shelburne Saddle Club where hours could be spend setting up jumps to raking the ring she never complained and was always the first to lend a hand. Chrissy worked for MH where she taught her equine skill from ground to saddle. MH you truly will be missed but never forgotten.
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Mitch
Condolence: My deepest heartfelt sympathies go out to Derek and Sebastian at this difficult time. I knew MH for the last 20 years through her passion for horses. We would always chat and giggle at every opportunity! MH was the type of woman we all aspire to be ... strong, well loved and respected by everyone who came into contact with her. She leaves a huge void in soooo many peoples lives. She may be gone, but she will not be forgotten.
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Caroline Moore
Condolence: M. et Madame Lessard, Guy, Derek et Sébastien.
Toutes mes condoléances. Mon coeur, mes prières et mes pensées sont avec vous dans cette terrible épreuve.
Marie-Helen était ma grande amie d'adolescence et je conserverai a toujours son souvenir dans mon coeur. Nos années aux Ursulines, nos journée de ski, son rire, sa joie de vivre, son amour des chevaux et des gros chiens... Elle était passionnée de la vie :o)
Elle était une amie sincère et fidèle. Les années nous ont éloignés mais nous nous sommes parler a quelques reprise et ce toujours avec plaisirs.
Au revoir Marie-Helen
Caroline
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Gail Gaskin, Gabrielle Sands and Shawn Sands
Condolence: There are some people who walk the earth and share beauty, laughter and love. M.H. and Steve were two of the most gifted and generous people that we have ever known. Our hearts are numb with the loss of these people. We have shared many laughs together and we are in awe of all that they accomplished as a family. Our hearts go out to the boys and may peace, love and memories comfort them always.
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Kathy Bishop
Condolence: Derek and Sebastien....I never got the chance to meet you mom, but let me tell me you...she and your father have raised to very intelligent, polite young men. My deepest sympathy to the both of you in your loss....Remember happy times to help ease the pain.
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Lib McMullen
Condolence: I am so sorry for your loss. I knew MH for over 30 years, first when she was a student of mine at Humber College and later as a friend and colleague in the Horse Industry. You are in my thoughts and prayers
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Sophie Vertigan
Condolence: when I first started eventing MH was the one who made me feel part of the eventing family. please remember you have a huge extended familly who will be there for you always. As MH was for us. we loved her.
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Al & Betty Soligo
Condolence: Betty and I got know MH (Marie-Helene) when we used to take our daughter, Natalie, for horse riding lessons at her Equus3D Equestrian Centre. I remember her as a 'go-getter' and a person with vision, a very energetic and feisty person-she did it all on that ranch, farm, centre. There was nothing physically she couldn't do! She was also a superb person and riding instructor that had a passion for the kids she taught. Natalie loved MH since Natalie knew that MH would go overboard to help Natalie in every way.
One such incidence occurred when Natalie's horse, Lacie, became very colicky and was became seriously ill. MH took charge, got Lacie into the horse trailer with the help of a large animal doctor, Dr. Slumsky, and tore through the backroads to the U of Guelph for an emergency operation. Because of MH, Lacie's operation went well and is still alive today (24 yrs. old).
Our hearts and prayers go out to the Lessard and Ratz family. May God sustain you through the next days, weeks, and months ahead. Love, Al, Betty, & Matt Soligo
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Susan Schuurman
Condolence: Our family is numb from this news. There are no words to express. I will never forget the lessons, clinics and camps we attended. I will never forget the sense of humour and dedication.
Our deepest condolences to Derek and Sebastien.
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Jim Gilchrist
Condolence: I am shocked and saddened by the passing of MH. She was a joy to work with and an inspirational leader for both her students and colleagues. I was a York Region Phys. Ed. Consultant and she was on staff at the newly opened Mazo de la Roche Elementary School in Newmarket. She had boundless energy and she passed it on to others. Everything was possible with MH. I never left one of our consulting meetings without her giving me a job to do. I shall never forget her. My thoughts are with her family.
Thursday October 02, 2014
Condolence From: Ankner Family
Condolence: Derek & Sebastian and Family
Our deepest condolences. We are very sad and cannot imagine your pain. Please remember all the good times and never forget these moments. Cry every day if you need to. Open your hearts and allow it to heal. Move forward with the passion and zest that your parents had and passed along to you. Our community is missing two great people who will never be forgot.
Our deepest sympathy
The Ankner Family
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Andrew Buck
Condolence: MH will always be a shining example for me to look up to. She was an awesome teacher. I loved how she was able to command attention from all her classes. Her students loved the way she managed them. I know many students would list her as their favourite teacher. Aside from her professional experience, I was also able to see the fun side of MH. She loved life. She had great fun and was a wonderful person have fun with. And she saw opportunities where others saw needs. She wasn't one to sit around and wait for others to meet those needs. She chose to do it. I hope that her shining example inspires others to step up as well. Look around and help others in their hour of need and you find a life filled with opportunity. God bless MH. My prayers are for all those missing her: colleagues, friends, students, and family. May you find comfort in her memory.
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Deborah Metherel
Condolence: Derek and Sebastien:
My heartfelt sympathy for you both. There are no words to describe the loss that you have. May you find comfort in the coming days, knowing how much your mom and dad were well loved and respected in the community.
I knew your mom from the horseshows that my daughter used to participate in. She was quite the woman, a whole rounded down to earth person. Her beautiful smile and her crazy laugh...she was the whole package. They will be sorely missed.
May GOD keep you surrounded by the love of your family and friends during this difficult time.
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Kelly and Jamie Forrest
Condolence: We are so sorry for the loss of your parents. MH was such an inspiring person for so many people, we will miss her.
Words cannot begin to express the sadness we feel for you both. Godspeed my friend.
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Donna, Dan & Samantha Lang
Condolence: I don't know what to say, other thank we are so sorry for your loss Derick and Sebestuan words cannot express our heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your mom and dad in such a terrible way. Please find strength in knowing they were so well loved by many. They have left behind an enormous hole in many hearts I know ours ache for the loss if them. We always had a good laugh when we were together. Think of all the good times and laughs that is all we can do at this time. You guys will have many struggles ahead but hang in to the good memories as you will have 2 angels watching over you.
If you need anything just call. We are here for you anytime.
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Linda Weldon
Condolence: Even now I can hear her distinct laugh when I visualize her face. You will never be forgotten MH.
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Jill Klacza, Marlin Travel
Condolence: It was with enormous shock and great sadness that I read a newspaper article today about the accident that tragically took the lives of Steve & MH.
MH had only just emailed me this past weekend inquiring about a family vacation for next year. It was such a pleasure working with them over the years with all of their holiday plans.
My heartfelt and deepest condolences go out to their sons and families on their profound loss.
Steve & MH were such lovely people and will be greatly missed by all who knew them.
Just heartbreaking......
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Lynne Poole
Condolence: I still sit here with a very heavy heart mourning the loss of two very fine people that I was lucky enough to call friends. MH always seemed to be there when I was looking for a friend... we took our Level 2 Coaching certification together, stewards courses and judges seminars. At every horse show we would laugh to see what role we were in.. competitor, steward, judge, coach, announcer. My last memory was the Silver Championship, MH competing, I being a steward. There I had the opportunity to sit down and spend some quality time with Steve. I dearly regret not getting to know him better. The community, equestrian and other, have lost two guiding lights and they will greatly be missed by all.
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Paul and Dorothy Ann Finlay
Condolence: We were shocked and heartbroken to learn of MH and Steve's tragic accident. MH taught us a horse course at Humber College 20+ years ago. She was truly delightful. She and Steve will always be remembered with great affection.Derek and Sebastien, your parents were so loved and will be greatly missed.
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Kim Sachau & Gary Gilchrist
Condolence: We are so sorry for the loss of two wonderful people. I have many great memories of competing my horse at your farm and running into MH at most of my dressage shows this past summer whether as a judge, steward or competitor. MH was always willing to help in whatever way she could whether it was looking up a rule when she was stewarding or just supporting her local equestrian community. Just recently we saw MH and Steve at the Silver Dressage Championships in London. It is these memories of MH and Steve together, happy and with their horses that we will cherish. We know nothing can replace them but we just hope that your memories of them will live on in your day to day lives.
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Lorna Lee
Condolence: Ed and I are very sorry for your loss of MH and Steve. They will be very sadly missed by everyone who knew them.
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Community Living Dufferin
Condolence: Sending sincere condolences on behalf of all of the people from CLD who enjoyed the therapy riding program at Equus 3D.
MH's vision to create a program for people who have disabilities so that they could experience the joy of riding was evidence of the loving, caring, passionate woman that she was.
Never did I imagine that an evening spent chatting with MH at an appreciation night for CLD, about the virtues of therapeutic riding would turn into a program that she felt strongly about, researched and then made reality.
It was a program that many people here enjoyed and looked forward to.
She will be sadly missed by so many.
Thoughts and prayers to their sons, family and friends.
Wednesday October 01, 2014
Condolence From: Lois Brown
Condolence: I am so very sorry to learn of the Death of MH. A few weeks ago I sat with her for several hours. We had a great visit and discussed her love of coaching I am thankful now that I had that time with her. I am so very sorry for your loss. Be assured that you are not alone and that many many people share your sorrow.
Tuesday September 30, 2014
Condolence From: RaDeana, Cailey, Brianna Montgomery
Condolence: Derek and Sebastian, we are so sorry for your loss. Know that you are in our prayers and thoughts. RaDeana, Cailey and Brianna Montgomery
Tuesday September 30, 2014