In Memoriam - People

A colorful, joyful and creative person known to many for many years in the Wellington Community of West Palm Beach has passed away. After a heartfelt battle with cancer, John passed away at home on Monday, June 24. He has left a legacy of his amazing accomplishments which will live on through the power and strength of his work, and the love of his family.

Maj. Gen. Jonathan (Jack) Burton, who served his country in both World War II and Vietnam, is a legend in the U.S. equestrian world. A former U.S. cavalry officer, he represented America in numerous international equestrian competitions, including the 1948 and 1956 Olympics. Skilled in both jumping and dressage, Gen. Burton is perhaps best known for being one of the key figures behind the development of eventing in the U.S.

An accomplished equestrienne, Katrina was involved in almost every aspect of the equestrian world. Her accomplishments during her career are too numerous to itemize, from horse show trophies and ribbons early in life to numerous winning racehorses starting in 1973, and driving championships won by her ponies in this millennium.

American Grand Prix dressage rider Gwen Stockebrand has passed away, losing her battle against cancer. She was 64 years old. Stockebrand last competed nationally in 2013 on NA Sampson. In 2014 Gwen was diagnosed with cancer which she fought bravely and survived. However, the cancer returned and she lost her second, courageous battle.

I will not be in the least bit surprised if you fail to recognize the lady in the photo. She could be one of your fellow boarders. She does not lift up her voice in expectation of special treatment for herself or her horse by the barn’s management. She keeps her belongings under control and does not creep into shared spaces. She keeps her tack orderly so that the rest of us need not be concerned that visitors to our barn will think us a slovenly or careless gaggle of riders.

Those that shared her passion, whom may not have had the money to afford a PRE, were amazed when she’d kick it into gear and managed a way to facilitate their dreams. She was always upbeat, incredibly independent, and a pillar of strength to all who needed her sage advice.