by Brian J. Mazurek, for Buffalo Raceway

Hamburg, NY — Dr. Richard J. ‘Doc’ Hall, 91, of Eden, N.Y., died Feb. 1, 2015.

He was a long-time breeder and owner of Standardbreds 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 death and served as the Association’s president from 1984-1992.

He was involved in harness racing for 80 years and 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 was way ahead of his time when it came to equine medical procedures and treatments.

“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; children, Richard, Thomas, Ann Vakoc and Vicky Loretto; and grandchildren, T. Gus, Kenneth Vakoc, Kathryn Hrisca, Hayley Loretto, Drew Loretto and Madison Loretto.

The family will be present to receive friends on Thursday (Feb, 5) 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 (Feb. 6)at 11 a.m. at St. James United Church of Christ, 76 Main St., Hamburg, N.Y. (please assemble at church).