Kevin Efimetz, 52, dies
August 16, 2018,by Marilyn Breuer-Bertera
Northville, MI — Kevin Efimetz, originally from Michigan, passed away suddenly on August 15, 2018, at the age of 52.
In his over 30 years in the horse business, Efimetz, affectionately known as “Big Bird,” had crossed North America, racing at many tracks from Ontario to California. Kevin relocated to New York in 2011, racing mainly at Yonkers and Monticello.
Kevin made new friends easily wherever he went, and willingly lent a helping hand to anyone in need. Everyone that knew him had something nice to say about him. His quick wit brightened many a day. The sad news of his passing spread quickly throughout the racing community. His 14-year-old pacer Semalu Express is on a three-race win streak at Monticello as of last week.
He was quite a sports fan, especially hockey; and in his younger days, Kevin was an avid pick-up game player. In recent years he enjoyed competing in three-card poker tournaments in Las Vegas, and feasting on In-N-Out Burgers while he was there.
Kevin is survived by his mother, Gloria Efimetz of Novi, Mich.; brother Brian Efimetz (Tamyra) of Atlanta, Ga.; brother Kerry Efimetz (Jill) of Novi, Mich.; many nieces and nephews; and faithful dog, Max. He is predeceased by father Walt Efimetz and brother Chris Efimetz (Susan). He will also be greatly missed by his many friends and acquaintances. Hopefully he knew in life how much he would be missed after he was gone.