It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ralph Pearson, who left us peacefully on September 9, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on August 25, 1932, in Ayrshire, Scotland, Ralph built a full and vibrant life in Brooklin, Ontario, where he and his beloved wife, the late Patricia Pearson (predeceased 2017), raised a beautiful family.
Ralph will be lovingly remembered by his daughters Diane, Lori (Leonard), Lynn (Paul), and Darlene, his grandchildren Patricia (John), Aaron, Sean, Nicole (Justin), Gregory (Erin), and Jeffery (Meighen), and his great-grandchildren Ethan, Sullivan, Easton, Autumn, Mason, Elsie, Cruz, and Darcy. He cherished every moment with his family, and his pride in them was immeasurable.
A man of great spirit, Ralph lived life entirely on his own terms, always doing things his way with the unmistakable wit and charm only he could bring. He enjoyed nothing more than a good Rye & Coke, and if you were fortunate enough to call Ralph your Dad, Papa, Uncle, or friend, you were blessed in a way words can hardly capture.
Beyond his love for family and friends, Ralph leaves an extraordinary legacy in the world of Quarter Horse racing in Ontario. From his early days bringing pari-mutuel racing to Picov Downs (now Ajax Downs) and the Markham Fair, to his leadership as President of the Quarter Racing Owners of Ontario (QROOI), Ralph was a pioneer who shaped the sport in Canada. He was instrumental in developing Stakes and Futurity race programs, spearheaded the Quarterama Committee, and championed initiatives such as the Canadian Sired Stakes and the introduction of drug-testing standards. His proudest racing moment came in 1973, when his mare Gina Gay won the very first Quarter Horse race at Woodbine Racetrack, a milestone in Canadian racing history.
In recognition of his contributions, Ralph was honoured with the AQHA Register of Merit in 1989, cementing his place as one of the sport’s true builders and visionaries.
Ralph’s life was defined by love, loyalty, and a passion for the things he held dear. His family, his friends, and the racing community will carry his memory forward with deep gratitude and admiration.
Memorial service details will be shared at a later date.
