from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Delbert R. Richards, 68, of Harrington, Del., died April 4, 2017, in his home, surrounded by his loving family.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 2-4 p.m. Friday (April 7) in Pippin Funeral Home, Inc., 119 West Camden-Wyoming Ave., Wyoming, Del.

Mr. Richards was born Oct. 9, 1948, in Caribou, Maine, where he was raised. His love for horses led him to a career in Standardbred racing and he trained throughout New York State and Delaware.

He was a member of the Harness Horse Racing Association of Central New York, the United States Trotting Association and the Delaware Standardbred Owners Association.

In his free time, he enjoyed going to the casinos, and spending time at Murphys Sports Bar.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie (DePaul) Richards; sons, Delbert Jr. (significant other, Bobbie Swain) and Robert (Dawn); daughter, Amy (Verne) LaClair; daughter-in-law, Berna; parents, Ray and Marjorie (Clarke); sister, Judy (Larry) Leonard; grandchildren, Marra, Codi, Daniel, Summer, Alexis, Kendall, Eden, R.J. and Carson; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family in Maine; and his faithful companion, his dog Riley. He was preceded in death by a son, Brian; daughter, Carrie; and sister, Donna Sullivan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the United States Trotting Association, 6130 S. Sunbury Road, Westerville, OH 43081.

Condolences may be sent via www.pippinfuneralhome.com.