The Dressage World Morns One of the Good Guys – Marty Haist (April 4,1952- October 13, 2024)

It is with deep sadness, that we announce the passing of Martin Eugene Haist, a beloved figure in the U.S. dressage community, who left us on October 13, 2024, at the age of 72. Marty, as he was affectionately known, was born on April 4, 1952, in Amityville, New York, and spent his life inspiring those around him with his talent, warmth, and unwavering calmness.

Marty’s journey took him from the shores of Long Beach, New York, where he married the love of his life, Beth Blakely, in October 1978, to Oklahoma, where he and Beth built a life filled with passion for horses and the arts. In addition to his devotion to his family, Marty was a talented saddle master, trained by esteemed masters in the field, including Martin Gulliver and Trevor, and he honed his skills further in Germany at Sommer Saddlery. His expertise led to the development of the Sommer Flextra saddle, a testament to his dedication to the sport of dressage.

Master of His Craft

Marty was not only a master of his craft but also a gifted artist, holding a Fine Arts degree. He expressed his creativity through painting and sculpting, leaving a legacy of beauty that resonated even beyond the equestrian world. As the owner of Tulsa Wood Interiors and The Horse Of Course in Claremore, Oklahoma, and Wellington, Florida, Marty was a fixture in the equestrian community, always ready with a warm smile and a Zen-like calmness that was contagious to all who met him.

Marty had a unique spark that lit up any room he entered. With a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous smile, he often seemed to be up to something delightful, bringing joy and laughter to those around him. His warmth and genuine kindness made everyone feel welcome, and his playful spirit was a reminder to embrace life’s simple pleasures. Whether sharing a laugh with friends or offering words of encouragement to a fellow rider, Marty had an extraordinary ability to uplift others and foster a sense of community.

Embracing Life

An avid surfer and skier, Marty embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. He was also a dressage rider and hosted numerous dressage schooling shows at their cherished Woodstock Farm in Claremore, Oklahoma. His love for horses and commitment to the sport inspired countless riders and enthusiasts, and his influence will be felt for generations to come.

Marty is survived by his wife and business partner, Beth Haist, his beloved stepdaughter, Michelle Fairley of Devon, UK, and his cherished grandsons, Rob Fairley of Tulsa, OK, and Dr. Jon Fairley of Devon, UK. He is also survived by his loving sisters, Mary Haist of Westhampton Beach, NY, and Eileen D’Alessio of New York City, NY.

As we remember Marty, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life filled with passion, creativity, and love for family and friends. His spirit will forever remain a guiding light in the hearts of all who knew him. A memorial service will be held during season in Wellington, Florida, with details to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Marty’s honor to https://horsesforachange.org/.