by Brian J. Mazurek, for Buffalo Raceway
HAMBURG, N.Y. --- Dr. Richard J. Hall ('Doc Hall') of Eden, N.Y. passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2015 at the age of 91. He was a long-time breeder and owner of standard bred horses in Western New York. He also served for many years as Buffalo Raceway track veterinarian.
Dr. Hall, a veterinarian for 62 years, was a member of the Western
New York Harness Horsemen's Association for the past 40 years. He was still a
member until his passing and served as the Association's President from 1984
until 1992.
He was involved in harness racing for 80 years. He was introduced
to the sport by his father at the age of 11.
Dr. Hall, a member of the Western New York Veterinarians
Association, was a graduate of the Ohio State University of Veterinary
Medicine.
Current Western New York Harness Horsemen's Association President
Bruce Tubin said of Dr. Hall, "He was a timeless advocate of the every day
local horseman. He was extremely generous when devoting his time and services
to the horsemen at any time of any day. Dr. Hall he was way ahead of his time
when it came to equine medical procedures and treatments."
Tubin added, "One of Dr. Hall's greatest thrills was our
annual picnic where he was able to speak with all the horsemen and their
families."
Vicky Loretto said of her father, "I remember my Dad and Mom
taking me to the race track back in the 1960s. He just loved going to the race
track. He loved the people there."
Dr. Hall is survived by his wife, Florence, and children Richard
Hall, Thomas Hall, Ann Vakoc, Vicky Loretto. He was also the grandfather of T.
Gus Hall, Kenneth Vakoc, Kathryn Hrisca along with Hayley, Drew and Madison
Loretto.
The family will be present to receive friends Thursday from 1-4
p.m.and 7-9 p.m. at the John J. Kaczor Funeral Home, Inc., 5453 Southwestern
Blvd. (corner of Rogers Rd.), Hamburg, N.Y. (716-646-5555). Funeral services
are Friday morning at 11 o'clock at St. James United Church of Christ, 76 Main
St., Hamburg, N.Y. (please assemble at church).
