from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Leroy Harold Fox, 78, of Sandwich, Ill., died July 9, 2011, after a battle with cancer at Edward Hospital in Naperville, Ill.

He was born August 19, 1932, in Sandwich, the son of Leo and Grace (Burns Elliott) Fox. He was together with the love of his life, Sherry Thomas, for 33 years and they were married January 14, 1980, in Pompano Beach, Fla.

Mr. Fox was a U.S. Army veteran and a member of Edgebrook Country Club, Sandwich Moose Lodge #1016 and the American Legion.

He was involved in the Standardbred industry for 45 years, owning, training and driving horses, and was very proud of his association with the Sandwich Fair as a Speed Superintendent.

He is survived by his wife, Sherry; daughters, LeeAnn (Frank) Williams, Regina Meidell and Kari (William) Garber III; step-daughter, Tina (Thomas) Mauer; grandchildren, Jaysen Meidell, Jenna Meidell, Nathan Garber and Zach Groves; step-grandson, Cody Mauer; sisters, Bernice (John) Hutchinson, Betty Wilson and Ruth (Donald) Wallis; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Gertrude Fox; and son-in-law, Robert Meidell.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 13, at Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Somonauk, Ill., with Father Andrew Hougan officiating. Burial will follow in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Somonauk. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. on Tuesday, July 12, at Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Somonauk.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Adopt-a-Race Horse Program or to the charity of one’s choice.