Wally McIlmurray Sr. dies

Longtime Michigan horseman Wally McIlmurray Sr., one of the most well known members of one of the state's most revered families in the sport, died early Wednesday morning. He was 79.



A member of Michigan's Harness Racing Hall of Fame, Mr. McIlmurray came to national prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s with the outstanding pacing mare Happy Sharon, who earned more than $600,000. Happy Sharon went on to become the dam of Lilting Laughter, the dam of the $2.4 million-winning McArdle.



Mr. McIlmurray currently shared ownership in Westward Vision, a half brother to the 2004 Horse of the Year Rainbow Blue. Westward Vision has career earnings of more than $158,000.



Mr. McIlmurray's sons, Arthur and Wally Jr. are two of Michigan's leading horsemen. His daughter, Lella, is well known as one of the sport's leading female amateur drivers and is married to agent and horse owner Bryan Montgomery. He also has a daughter, Mandy.



Visitation will be held Thursday, Dec. 29 from 2-8 p.m. at the Casterline Funeral Home, 122 W. Dunlap, Northville, Mich. The funeral service will be held Friday, Dec. 30 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, Angela Hospice or the Standardbred Retirement Foundation.

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