Harry Malcolm “Mac” Lilley Passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025 with his loving wife and family at his side. Born on January 29, 1941 to Harry and Catherine (nee Wrightman) Lilley. Mac is survived by his devoted wife Ann (nee Jeffery) of 67 years and their children David (Susan), Barbara Vanderloo, Jeff (Late Ruleen) Gerry (Dodie), Doug (Shari), Hank (Maggie), 17 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 1 great-great granddaughter.
Survived by his siblings Donald “Dutch”, Peggy Gowan (Ken), Anne Veryken (Pete) and sister in law Elaine along with many loving nieces, nephews and Jeffery family. Predeceased by siblings Allen, Cliff, Ella, Flossie, June, Martha,Sadie and Daughter-in-laws Sherry (nee Toth), Ruleen (nee Mc Callum) and Son-in-law John Vanderloo.
Mac was a hard working man who, with his wife at his side, raised a family of 6 through some rough times and many good times on the family farm. In the 1970’s he developed an interest in the business and purchased his first stallion ZIP TAR that started the farm. That interest turned into 47+ Stallions and a 50 Year passion for the growth of the breeding industry in Ontario, along with his excitement of training & racing standardbreds in his own small stable in the province and North America.
Mac knew pedigree and understood the importance of fair and true-to-your word business dealings with clients and customers alike. He valued Integrity, Your word, a Firm Handshake & appreciated all things John Wayne. Tough when he needed to be and a gentle giant to most, he embodied Wayne’s quote “Talk Low, talk Slow and Don’t say Too Much”. He was well respected amongst the horsemen and horsewomen, so much so that he was honored by The Western Fair District in 2017 by being inducted to their wall of fame for his contribution & dedication to the standardbred industry. He will be eternally loved and remembered by so many.
Visitation will take place at Arn Funeral Home, 193 Shackleton Line, Dutton, Ont., Tuesday (June 10) from 4-8 p.m. The funeral service will take place at Arn Funeral Home on Wednesday (June 11) at 1 p.m., with interment to follow at Cowal McBride Cemetery.
Cards may be received:
Ann Lilley 28322 Chalmers Line, Dutton Ontario N0L 1J0 Canada
Donations in Mac’s Honor may be made to:
Ontario Standardbred Adoption
www.osas.ca.