by Jack Ginnetti

Saco, ME — Chester W. Emerson, 81, of Saco, Maine and Pompano Beach, Fla., died Dec. 30, 2010, after a lengthy battle with bone cancer.

Mr. Emerson and his wife, Jean, were involved in all facets of the industry including breeding and racing.

Plainridge President Gary Piontkowski expressed sadness on Mr. Emerson’s passing and praised the couple’s contributions to harness racing.

The son of Alfred and Gertrude (Hill) Emerson, he was born in Biddeford, Maine on March 30, 1929. A U.S. Navy veteran he later retired from the Saco branch as a postal supervisor in 1984. He also was a longtime member of the Thornton Academic Alumni Association.

After his retirement he expanded his fondness of training and racing Standardbreds from the family farm on Boom Road in Saco. The Emerson Stable raced the New England circuit in the 1970s and shipped to Pompano Park in Florida in 1985.

Mr. Emerson was a member of the USTA, Maine Harness Horsemen’s Association, Florida Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association, the Biddeford/Saco Elks and had an affection for the Moxie Lake Campers Association.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jean, the former editor of the Northeast Harness News; three daughters; three grandchildren; a brother, David; and two sisters.

At his request there are no services. Cremation and burial will be at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Saco.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Thornton Academy Alumni Fund, 438 Main St., Saco, ME 04072. Mrs. Emerson can be reached at 478 Boom Road, Saco, ME 04072.