by Todd Haight, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — Francis E. Gilhooly, 87, a lifelong resident of Attica and Alexander, N.Y., died Sept. 12, 2017.

He was born on Aug. 17, 1930, a son of the late Francis and Louise (Good) Gilhooly.

He saw combat in the Korean War, and was retired from the U.S. Postal Service, where he served as postmaster in Alexander, Attica, and Corfu. He was a member of the U.S. Trotting Association, Western New York Harness Horsemen’s Association, and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

His passion in life was harness racing, and he raced many horses at Batavia Downs and Buffalo Raceway. He will be fondly remembered for his love of horses and his kind and gentle treatment of all animals.

He took great pleasure in his home and found a special friendship with his son Michael.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Peggy; son, Michael; daughter, Judy McClurg; stepson, Todd (Jennifer) Baker; stepdaughter, Mary Baker; grandchildren, Ryan McClurg, Melissa McClurg, Kelly (Walter) Rao and Alexander Baker; great-grandchildren, Hazel Rao and Mulligan Rao; sisters, Mary Pell and Helen (Richard) Cecere; sister-in-law, Carol; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Daniel (Diane); brother, George; and brother-in-law, Donald Pell.

A memorial mass will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday (Sept. 23) at SS Joachim and Anne Parish (St. Vincent Site), 50 East Avenue, Attica.