My deepest condolences to his family and the Spruce Meadows family. I had the pleasure of working with Albert in the early 2000s , he was an amazing man. His passion for the sport showed. I know he will be greatly missed.

Judy, Stephen and family, we only learned of Albert’s passing at the time of Ron’s passing and memorial and are so sorry for this profound and sudden loss. The many years together at Red Deer Lake with our children has gone so quickly – and now the next journey and passage for you and your families. Albert has left an incredible legacy in the horsemanship and equestrian competition world – never to be forgotten. Take care, Greg & Linda Powell and our family, Adam, Nate & Michelle, and Cailin

I am very shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Albert Kley. He had a profound influence on my career as a professional rider, and now as author. Likely more so than he would ever have known.

I rode at Spruce Meadows circa 1977-1980 and had a young Appaloosa stallion. Not the typical SM residents, as I was just a teenager then, and had come from a western-riding background. Perhaps Albert was unaware of how quietly and intently I observed him working with his horses, and his students. I learned a lot. I started the stallion myself based on Albert’s methods and careful, beautiful handling of the big, stunning Hanoverians. He was truly a master.

I will never forget the peaceful, almost ethereal moments that occured while riding in the great hall after school or a long work day. Albert was training his mare, Goldika, at the time. If wisdom, balance, and clarity could be conveyed simply by one’s presence, Albert was certainly a master at that, too.

My deepest sympathy and condolences to Judy, as well as the other members of Albert’s immediate and extended family and many friends. RIP, Mr. Kley, and gallop on!

Judy, Steve and family- we are so sorry to hear of Alberts sudden passing. Certainly a life well loved with so many who loved him. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Very sorry to read of your loss, Judy and family. I remember watching and being enthralled when Albert was “courting” you and helping you train your young horse at Tom’s so many years ago. I was certainly influenced by him, having only ridden western to that point, to go to England for my BHSAI. Without even knowing it he influenced another young rider. My condolences.

Judy, I am so stunned to hear the news of Albert’s passing. I just stumbled across it while following up on similar word regarding Ron Southern. What a double whammy, and great losses, both. Goodness how the time flies. Just this past week I was telling a student who was having a tough time getting up on a horse from the ground, about Albert, all 5’maybe 7” of him, getting up on the 18H1” Gambrinus, a sight that had to be seen to be appreciated! Anecdotes aside, I consider Albert to be the most professional professional I have known in the horse game. I have always had a huge appreciation for the kindness, friendship and support he gave me as he took on this rather inexperienced, but earnest assistant trainer in the late 70s, and he will always have an valued place in my heart. To you and the rest of your family, I wish you all the best in strength and support during this season. Take care. Blessings. Dave Greening

So sorry to hear of Alberts passing sending blessings to the rest of th family

Judy and Family,

It is with much sadness that I read about the passing of Albert. From the first time I met Albert in 1998, he became a friend and great mentor. To be allowed to visit Spruce Meadows and have Albert give me two or three horses to ride was a great pleasure. You can only image how I felt having Albert respect my skills enough to ride at Spruce Meadows.

My respect for him is with out measure. My sadness deep.

I offer my condolences to you and your family.

Best Regards,

Bill Harless

Former American Airlines Marketing Executive

Dear Judy, and family,

we are so sorry to hear of Albert’s departure from us. His smile , “ya, ya ” in conversations, and twinkling eyes, will be remembered fondly.

Sorry to have not been able to join you to celebrate his life here.

hugs when next we meet,

Judy(Shaw) and John Heynen

Judy .. I only just learned of Albert’s passing. He was a remarkable man who always took time to visit with John and I when we dropped in to Spruce Meadows. Always a wink and a ready smile…please accept my heartfelt condolences.

Anne Anderson

(Friends also with Moira and Deiter)

Albert meant so much to our Kuenz family. We truly wouldn’t be where we are today without his help. We will miss his cheerful presence at Spruce Meadows for many years to come. Our heart felt condolences go out to to the entire Kley family during this very difficult time.

It is with great sadness that I have learned of Albert’s passing and my thoughts go out to Judy and the family at this sad time. I have known, admired and had many laughs with him since 1979, especially on my winter visits. I was honoured to photograph horses running ‘wild and free’ in the snow at his home and he organised the same for me at Spruce Meadows, the pictures of which are still appearing on calendars world-wide all these years later!

He was a consummate professional, a gentleman and fun to be with and he will be sadly missed.

Bob Langrish

My deepest condolences to Judy, Steven and all the Spruce Meadows family. I was so fortunate to have been a part of the first horse show at Spruce Meadows and in particular to have worked with Albert. He was a true inspiration and so dedicated. We had a lot of fun and many laughs. He was taken from us far too soon. Rest in peace Albert – AUF WIEDERSEHEN.

Hilda Armstrong (Ryckman)

Judy,

You had Albert for a lifetime, and we for just a breath. He was truly an inspiration to both myself and Malcolm. Albert brought both a passion & love of horses to us all. May he rest in peace knowing that he passed on his love to all who shared his passion. God Bless.

Sgt. Malcolm Eskelson & Cpl. Sheryl Cody

RCMP Musical Ride Branch

Our deepest condolences to Judy and family. Although we have not been in contact for many years, we have always been aware of Albert and the Spruce Meadows family. The horse world will have a gap and your family will miss him terribly.

From your first horse family, Judy – the Little’s

Albert has touched many lives, including mine. He taught me more then he could imagine about horses and life and made me believe in myself when I needed it the most. He will sadly never know how much I admired him. I’m so grateful I got the chance to ride and work with such an amazing person, he was the best mentor and even if I only got to be around him for a short period of my life, I will never forget him. My deepest condolences to his family. Thank you for everything Albert. You will be forever in my heart.

Melanie Lamarche

Wishing you peace in this time of great sorrow. I met Albert once at Ella’s birthday party. I mentioned that my daughter loved horses and I distinctly remember his face lighting up as he invited us to come and get a behind the scenes tour. The passion was so bright in his eyes – clearly he touched the lives of so many!!!

My deepest sympathies to Judy , Steven and his family , the Spruce Meadows family and the entire horse community. If you read the world wide condolences it is easy to see that Albert touched the hearts and lives of all the people that had the honour of meeting him . He was exceptional, we will all miss him dearly and we must cherish our memories of him …..

There are so many things to say about a great and, more importantly, a compassionate man. In Manitoba he came with others from Spruce Meadows to support the dream of a new major horse show here in Manitoba. Albert’s participation gave it a stamp of authenticity. Our daughter competed at Spruce for many years, Our coach knew Albert who offered help in a couple of difficult situations. But that was not the true man.

In my mother’s declining years I would take her on trips, one of which was to Spruce. In the Training Hall Albert recognized me, took time out of the lesson, came over and shook my hand and said I am so glad to see you. He knew me because he talked about my daughter’s coach. Albert had warmth and genuine concern for people as well as the horses who were in his care.

This is the mark of a great human being

Sometimes it is not how long you have known someone but how they have touched your life. Albert was one of those people who made you feel like you were part of the team no matter what part you played. He will be dearly missed.

Albert was the face of Spruce Meadows. He welcomed all riders, spectators, officials as if they were Royalty. I never heard Albert say an unkind word about anyone. He was always full of enthusiasm and happiness. There will never be another Albert…he was very special to me and I find it hard to accept that I will never see him again.

My love and condolences go out to Judy, Steven, and all Spruce Meadows

I will always have the fondest memories of riding with Albert at Spruce Meadows and the long friendship we shared afterwards. I am thankful that I took up Albert’s offer to stop in and see his farm not long ago. We looked through old memories, and laughed about our old times. Albert opened many doors for me in my life and was a fundamental person in my formative years.

My condolences to all of his family, he was a man who touched many lives.

On behalf of the Manitoba Horse Council, I would like to express condolences to Albert’s Family. Many of us who knew him only as one of the competitors at the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, will remember his horsemanship and sportsmanship. Those of us who knew him on a slightly more personal footing, will remember too his unfailing good nature, his patience and his willingness to help. A true gentleman and gentle man, he will not be easily forgotten. Our lives are richer, for having known him and can only pass on good wishes to his family.

Sincerely

Geri Sweet, Preident. MHC

I have many good memories of Albert. He was a great person and a wonderful horseman. He taught me many things. My condolences to Judy, Steve and your entire family

Michelle Kay (Visser)

On behalf of the Marshall family, we were very saddened to hear of the passing of Albert. My sisters and I will always remember the kindness that Albert extended to a bunch of girls , with wide eyes and lots to learn. Albert was always smiling and watching, just in case someone needed some help , advice or his bright smile. He lit up a room. My Mom , Donna Marshall always looked forward to seeing Albert and Judy throughout the many years at Spruce Meadows . He defined the word “gentleman” and will be missed by some many. Our condolences go out the the family and friends of Albert. Spruce just won’t be the same without him.

Jill, Shelley, Allison and Donna Marshall

The MacNeill family was so sorry to hear of your loss. The little we knew of Albert was of a gentle nature and much kindness. To Steve,Judy, and family we send our condolences.

Greg, Marjorie, Brendan and Keltie.

It is with great sadness that I received this unfortunate news of Albert’s passing. My earliest memory of Spruce Meadows is of Albert – his easy smile and friendly encouragement at the ringside. He always carried himself with the utmost dignity and class and was an inspiration to any budding new rider. Albert showed people like myself , an aging amateur rider, that if you love the horses and the sport enough there was no stopping us from performing even though our own biological clock was ticking. There will be a huge gap at the showgrounds with the passing of Albert.

My sincerest condolences to Albert’s family.

Deeply saddened the board, staff and breeders of the Hannoveraner Verband face the sudden passing away of Albert Kley.

For the Hannoveraner Verband Albert Kley was an institution! He was a true horseman, a successful jumper rider and breeder and a big fan of the Hanoverian horse. From the beginning on Albert was the branding representative of the Hannoveraner Verband in Western Canada. We will miss Albert’s open and friendly personality and will honour his memory as an honest friend and an indispensable supporter of the Hanoverian breed in Canada.

Albert Kley leaves a big gap in every respect. Our condolences go to his wife Judy and his son Steve with his family.

I have a very heavy heart today.. A true friend to me.. I’ll miss his signature smile.. That ever present salute to me whenever he walked a course. Rest easy and my condolences to Judy and Steve and family. So hard to believe..

Judy, Stevie and family & everyone at Spruce Meadows,

I was so very sad to hear of Albert’s sudden passing. Albert was such an iconic horseman and a great mentor who taught me so much during my time riding with him. I will be forever grateful for his wisdom and for the privilege to ride Winsome and Wintertraum. I have so many fond memories…… Saturday morning lessons and many celebrations in his office at Spruce Meadows toasting to another great tournament with a schnapps! I’m sorry that I’m unable to attend on Friday but I will be remembering Albert fondly and will be there in spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with you and I wish you peace.

On behalf of the Western Canada Hanoverian Breeders Club I would like of offer our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Albert. His presence, advice and expertise will be sorely missed. The bloodlines he loved will be carried on in the offspring and will never be forgotten.

President of the Western Canada Hanoverian Breeders Club

George von Platen

To Judy and her family:

I was so sorry to hear you lost Albert. He will be missed. My thoughts are with you.

Warmest regards, Victoria Row

We wish to extend our sincere condolences .

We always looked forward to seeing Albert at Spruce Meadows riding around with a beaming smile

and a happy greeting.

He will be greatly missed.

Albert said to us one time while helping Steve with his horse at Spruce Meadows that a man was rich if he had a good woman by his side and that both he and Steve were rich men.

Mit großer Bestürzung habe ich von Alberts Tod erfahren, mein tiefstes Beileid gilt seiner Familie.

Albert war nicht nur Vorbild für mich , sondern Freund und Kamerad. Ein Horseman hat uns viel zu früh verlassen, wann immer ich in Calgary war, hatte er immer ein offenes Ohr, einen Rat oder auch freundliches Schulterklopfen für mich. Albert ich werde dich nie vergessen.

Deepest condolences Albert will be greatly missed!! He was an ambassador to not just the sport but also to our young riders. His passion to share the excellance in riding and breeding radiated out of him with his gracious smile and wise nature. We are so greatful to have shared his expertise and to have called him and Judy our friends. So sorry for you loss and we will truly miss you Albert!

We are very sorry to learn that Albert passed away and offer our heartfelt condolences to his family and the Spruce Meadows team. Many of us have fond memories of encounters with him. Throughout all the years, he has always looked after the well-being of our German teams and horses in Calgary. He was most friendly and helpful at all times, no matter what issue we had. We could rely that he found a solution. You could tell that he really cared! Albert will be sorely missed by us.

The German Equestrian Federation (FN)

The German Olympic Committee for Equestrian Sport (DOKR)

Otto Becker, National Jumping Coach and Chef d’Equipe

I remember when Christian was about 5 years old he asked Albert why the stallions were so good for him. Albert’s response was, I’m bigger than they are! He truly was bigger in so many ways.

We are going to miss Albert. He was a dear man and a good friend. Our heart goes out to Judy, Steve, Ashley and the grandkids.

George, Glenys and family von Platen

My condolences to Alberts family, may u find comfort at this time knowing how many lives this incredible horseman touched. His presence and words will be with us always.

Judy, Stevie and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.

Albert was a true horseman in every sense of the word. I looked forward to seeing him every year at the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair and at the Hanoverian horse inspections, when I could make them.

The Fair will not be the same without him and I will truly miss our annual talks.

I had the pleasure of meeting Albert on a few occasions, since my arrival from the UK a year ago. Such a gentleman and inspiration. He will be greatly missed.

Dear Judy and family. I was very sad that Albert is gone. I was shocked. Since I leave the Hannoveraner Versand and go to Oldenburg we dont have much contact but he was one of the Best. In my heart he will be all the time. It is not easy to understand that he passed. I feel with you! Greetings Annette Bühmann

Dear Judy, Stevie and family, We are so very sad and shocked to hear that Albert passed. He was always the brightest light at Spruce Meadows and will be missed terribly by us and all who knew him. Jack, Jackie, Jodi, Scott and Megan Hugill

Our deepest condolences on the loss of Albert. He was very kind to us and helpful no matter if we were on the grounds of Spruce Meadows or not. Albert made my girls feel extremely welcome as part of the Colour Guard presentation team during the tournaments and filled them with laughs back at the barns when blowing bubbles with Le Premier. He was the personification of the horse program at Spruce Meadows, horse welfare always being his first priority, and there was no better ambassador for the venue or the sport. We will miss him greatly.

I was fortunate to have known Albert in the 1970s when he came to show at the Brandon Winter Fair. I was a complete, ignorant beginner in jumping, but Albert was always courteous, considerate, and good for a laugh about our horses. I will always remember him and Young Wolfsburg He was a great example of a horseman who was also totally a gentleman.

Judy,

Condolences to your and your family from Maureen and me and all the Panther staff. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Our deepest sympathies and condolences to Judy and family. Albert was always the ultimate gentleman and horseman. His kindness and sense of humor lightened many a rainy day. I count it a privilege to have had the opportunity to have known Albert. He typified all that is best about the equestrian community. His contribution to the equestrian world will live on in the many riders and trainers he has mentored and inspired.

I had the honour of getting to know Albert on our annual trips to show at the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair horse show. Each year he said “when you come to Calgary, let me know and I will show you around Spruce Meadows”. True to his word years later, he gave my husband and me an unforgettable two hour “backstage” tour and shared with us his pride in the history of this great venue to which he had dedicated his life. Albert, you were a true and unforgettable gentleman.

Bei jedem Besuch in Calgery war es für mich eine Pflichtaufgabe Albert zu besuchen. Zuletzt 2014. Wir konnten viel aus alten Zeiten plaudern. Ein großer Pferdemann hat uns verlassen.

Judy and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Albert was such a special person with a smile and twinkle in his eye that will be missed. The mare show will not be the same.

I hope you find comfort in your memories and the legacy he left.

Hugs xxx

We are so sad about the sudden passing of Albert – losing another beloved member of our family. With Albert one of the most reliable and straight-lined man we ever met is gone. May Judy, Steve and Ashley have the strength needed in this time. We will keep Albert in our hearts.

Ingrid with

Nicole, Matthias and Jesper

Such sad news to hear that Albert is no longer with us and such a great loss to the equestrian world. Albert was a part of Spruce Meadows for so many years. His depth of knowledge and kindly demeanour will be sorely missed. My heart goes out to Judy and his family at their tragic loss.

Sue Hewton-Waters and Family

I am so very sorry to hear of Albert’s passing. I met him first in Toronto when he came east with Nancy in 1972 and was very pleased to make his acquaintance again when I moved west and began participating in events at Spruce Meadows. Besides being overawed by Albert’s skill with horses and all to do with them, I highly respected his aura…a happy man doing what he most wanted to do with grace and humour. I never doubted that he would live forever. This is a shock.

My condolences go out to his family who I have met and wish them peace.

Judy and Family Bearberry Alberta Jan 10 2016

I learn today of Albert’s passing. He was for me a very nice professional gentlemen.

I have found memories from working with Albert.

My thoughts are with You.

Jean St Laurent

Albert always had time to say hello and how are you, always had words of encouragement or to make a joke with the younger kids riding at Spruce Meadows. I’m very saddened at the passing of such a wonderful and kind man.

I just read about Albert’s passing. I will always cherish the few moments he shared with me. He was a true kind spirit.

Sincerely,

Laureen James

Albert always took time to help me out with my Jumpers when I was a young girl. In those days the Jumpers consisted of Preliminary, Intermediate and Open. I have never forgotten the words of wisdom he shared with me and his bright smile! Condolences, thoughts and prayers to the Kley family !

I’m very sorry to hear about Albert’s passing. My deepest condolences to Judy, Stevie and his family.

Albert was a horseman, through and through. He was doing what he loved doing and through his passion he has touched many lives. I was fortunate enough to have met Albert and spend time with him and his family. I’ll have lifetime memories from that time.

Judy, Stevie and family, my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Albert will stay in our hearts forever.

Steve, I am so sorry for your great loss. This is the last verse of ee cummings “i carry your heart” – you will have him with you always.

“here is the deepest secret nobody knows/(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud/and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows/higher than soul can hope or mind can hide)/ and this is the wonder that’s keeping the stars apart/ i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)”

I am so sorry Judy and family. We will all miss him Mara Coote Freeman ( MJ Farms)

I am so saddened by Albert’s Passing. My deepest sympathy to Judy and his family.

Selfishly I will miss his mentorship and wish we had his knowledge which he would share so much longer.

Spruce Meadows, The Hanoverian Horse community and the Equestrian world will not be the same and he will be greatly missed.

Heather Smith

Condolences to Judy, Steven and family and of course his Spruce Meadows family.

He will be missed by a great many more.

Trudie and Arnold Spengler of ACS Farms

I have many fond memories of Albert. He was a great influence to me and so many. I am thankful to have known him and learned from him. Horseman, gentleman and friend, he will be missed. But a little bit of Albert is in every rider and horse he ever came across.

All my thoughts, and love to Judy and Steven and the rest of his family, it’s a large one.

Our sincere condolences to Albert’s wife and family, as well as his Spruce Meadows family.

For the short time we knew the great horseman, he touched our lives forever.

Mike, Kathy and Katelyn Golka

His loss is felt all through the Riding Community here and abroad. Deepest sympathies.

Being there at “Joe’s” to watch Albert school his horses was a highlight of my youth. Lost too soon is a great horseman and human. My condolences to Judy, family and friends.

A gentleman I always looked forward to seeing. His ready smile, kind words, astute observations and interesting conversations were always a high point. He will be terribly missed by the entire community. Heartfelt condolences to you all

Mit Bestürzung erfahre ich, dass ein wunderbarer Mensch, ein Vorbild für viele, ein Pferdemann vom Scheitel bis zur Sohle, mein früherer Ausbilder und Sportkamerad Albert Kley von uns gegangen ist.

Mein Beileid gilt seiner Familie und seinen Freunden in Spruce Meadows und der ganzen Welt. Albert wird mir ewig in guter Erinnerung bleiben

Heinz-Georg (Schorse) Dittmer, Stemmen-Stemmerfeld (Germany)

I am so truly saddened by this news- Albert was an incredible man, and the world has lost a truly gentle and kind spirit. The horsemanship community of show jumping has lost a mentor, a teacher, a monument. Prayers to all his family at this overwhelming loss, and know that all who knew him were blessed with the opportunity.

Jennifer Jones

Edmonton Area Paramedic

Shocked and saddened by Albert’s passing, my thoughts and prayers are with Judy and Albert’s family and friends. Such a kind and gentle presence yet Albert had a profound effect on those fortunate enough to have learned from his guidance, motivating nature and commitment to excellence.

Judy, I will always remember Albert as a consumate professional, great horseman, mentor and fun-loving friend. My thoughts are with you and his family and many friends.

Judy , Stevie, and family, my deepest condolences, I’m am so saddened, he was a wonderful horseman, mentor and a strong person. I have many things that I have him to thank in my training and riding. Ride the horses in heaven Albert.

My heart is broken….. I had the best time in calgary at our trailriding tour- with Spieler at spruce meadows….with judy and steven you are always my family!!!….

Uncle Albert may you be at a better place with your cousin and my lovely dad….

Our thoughts and prayers are with Albert’s family during this difficult time. The Abey family will always hold a special place in our hearts for Albert

Heartfelt prayers for you all during this time. Albert left an imprint on all who met him and I will always think of him when I go to Spruce Meadows. His smile, his laughter and his love of everything horse….so sorry for your loss.

My deepest sympathies. Albert will truly be missed and was an educated classy horseman. He always took the time to talk with me and truly cared about Spruce Meadows.

Albert was a loving man and I have fond memories of him. He “always” greeted everyone with a warm welcome and smile. He was a pleasure to know and a wonderful horseman. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.

RIP

Madter horsemen

Ambassador for Spruce Meadows

Gentelmen

I am so saddened by the news of Albert’s passing. Every year I would look forward to Albert’s cheerful greeting, in the past, a riding lesson or two and always, his words of encouragement. Such a horseman, such a gentleman, an amazing role model in every way! My heart goes out to Judy, Stevie and family and the extended family of Spruce Meadows.

Judy, Stevie, and family and Spruce Meadows family I send my deepest sympathies to you. Albert will always have a special place in my heart and in the hearts of all he taught and touched. I can see him now Riding Master in Horse Heaven. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this very difficult time.

Albert was a special person, who’s many acts of kindness and generosity were unsung. His humility belied his true greatness. He had an energy that was contagious and a zest for life and laughter that infected me every time I was in his presence. I will miss him greatly.

My deep condolences to Judy and family.

Our heartfelt condolences to Judy and family.

He will be sadly missed and his imprint on Sruce will always be felt.

I drink a schnapps to you my friend.

Judy, Stevie and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Ron (Doc) and I thought the world of Albert. He was such a special person. I will miss him hugely but feel very lucky to have had him as a friend.

Sending my deepest sympathies to Judy, Steven and the entire family. He was truly a riding Master and I am thankful for having him be part of my riding endeavours. The lessons learned will never be forgotten.

So sorry to have to lose this amazing man to the heavens — but as I am sure that it’s where all the great horses must go, so too will go Albert. My children and I did not know him well or know his family — but he was able to teach us so much in such a short time — and to show by example. This helped us. He helped redefine what matters most to us. He was special. Gifted. For sure, he is in heaven with all of his favorite old horses.

Words cannot express our shock and sadness of this news.

It was and will continue to be a gift to have been part of Albert’s journey.The many memories of sharing and being part of his private world will be irreplaceable. Our love to Judy ,Steve Ashley and grandchildren.

I only spent a day with Albert but it is a day I have spoken of and thought of many times. He was a great coach, horseman and a true gentleman. I was struck by his willingness to share , his humour and his interest in what others do with their horses . He will be greatly missed.

So sorry for your loss. He loved his horses and his people! A true horseman. He will be greatly missed

On behalf of the Canadian Hanoverian Society and all our breeders in Canada I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Judy and your family. Albert was a great horseman and a true gentleman. He was an integral part of developing the breeding of Hanoverians in Canada and will be greatly missed.

Albert was a dear special friend that I met here in Manitoba over 15 years ago when he popped out of the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair to coach Brandon pony club. I was his taxi. His sense of fun, positive guidance and enthusiasm for ” of course you can do this, just try” was inspiring. . I looked for him every spring here at fair and he never let me down, remembering my name and asking after my sons. He gave me his ball cap when he won the Kubota cup on Daquiri that I shall treasure even more now. On a visit to Spruce with my sons 8 & 10 he excused himself from some visitors and said he had to greet his friends from Manitoba. We were so touched and treasure the memory. He opened a drawer of large ribbons and the boys chose one each. This event was repeated 3 years ago when after his call Callum, then 18 my son and I drove to Spruce to meet Albert to collect his own hand made travelling tack boxes from his stunning home and developing barn just outside Spruce. We were honoured, grateful and delighted to receive this amazing gift and we use them daily, enjoy them and cherish them. 2 of them just returned home from a years working pupil position in Kingston. Callum’s horse, a hanoviarian, we noted on his passport was inspected by Albert 9 years ago, a very special signature and we drew his attention to this last time we met. Little did we imagine it would be the last. We will forever regret that we were not able to jump round Spruce on that horse with Albert cheering from the stands. Callum was taught by Albert in a clinic here in Brandon MB and it was the lightbulb moment in his equestrian life and will forever be responsible for his dedicated equestrian life. Albert we miss you, we shed many tears at this news. You were always a gentleman, always a role model, a dear special friend and an inspiration. Thankyou for your friendship. We are so much better for it. Rest in peace dear sweet man, thankyou.

We will greatly miss Albert, both as a horseman and ambassador for Spruce Meadows but also as a knowledgeable and approachable mentor to us Hanoverian breeders. We have been very fortunate to have him as part of our equestrian and breeding community in Canada, and will very deeply feel his loss. Sending our condolences to Judy and family, and also his Spruce Meadows family.

Our deepest condolences to Judy, Steven and his family and the Spruce Meadows family.

A great husband, father and horseman gone too soon.

Nancy Smith and Bill Akins.

We are very saddened to hear of the passing of Albert. He truly was one of a kind. Our condolences to all of his family and loved ones.

Albert was always so friendly and professional. A perfect representative of Spruce Meadows! He was always so kind to my girls who rode and gave them great encouragement and advice! I will miss his smile and presence every time I go to Spruce Meadows! Ride high in heaven. Karin Macoun and Family