Longtime harness racing industry participant Conroy Matthews of Orangeville, Ont. passed away peacefully at home after a long battle with cancer on Jan. 18, 2023, at the age of 83.
"Con" was a huge racing enthusiast who purchased his first horse in the early 1980s after getting hooked as a fan at Orangeville Raceway. He then took on training with Welks Free Gift, Will R James and Mickeys Blue to name a few. He was a jack of all trades around the track — an upholsterer by trade, he used that knowledge when the track contacted him to make all new saddle pads for the races. He also would fix and make new harness bags for many around the track; you name it and he could make it.
He passed on his love for the sport to his son Chris and followed his stable faithfully, and then became Team McNair's number one fan. He remained a breeder and owner for many years and loved harness racing until the very end.
Beloved husband of Mary Matthews. Dear father of Newton (Andrea), Audrey Smith (Henry), Kerwin (Lorraine), Ian (Audrey), Chris (Jessica), Alison Murray (Danny) and Michelle MacGregor (Dana). Cherished grandfather of Anton, Nathan, Tristian, Ethan, DJ, Alicia, Lauria, Soroyah, Devon, Nyssa, Danelle, Sydney, Avrey, Kendal, Jacob and Jessica (Eric). Remembered by his siblings Sybil, Charles (Gloria), Jean (Leroy). Conroy will also be greatly missed by other relatives and many friends.
A celebration of Conroy's Life will be held at Dods & McNair Funeral Home, Chapel & Reception Centre, 21 First St. Orangeville, Ont. on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023 from 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Memorial donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.
A tree will be planted in memory of Conroy in the Dods & McNair Memorial Forest at the Orangeville's Island Lake Conservation Area. The 21st Annual Dedication Service will be held on Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023 at 2 p.m.
Condolences may be offered to the family at dodsandmcnair.com.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Conroy Matthews.