Columbus, OH — Robert Werkheiser, 79, died June 10 after a short illness, with his wife, Lisa, by his side.

Mr. Werkheiser was born in Easton, Pa., on Jan. 14, 1943, to Robert W.J. and Laura Seidel Werkheiser. His interest in Standardbreds began as a teenager, and he ultimately trained and drove race horses at tracks from New York to Florida over a span of around 40 years. After retirement, he and his wife moved to Alabama, where they owned a farm and raised beef cattle.

Mr. Werkheiser was also a veteran, having served in the United States Army from 1965 to 1968.

Mr. Werkheiser is survived by his wife of 45 years, Marlise (Lisa); sisters, Judith Jarman (LeRoy) and Susan Payton (Greg); and multiple nieces and nephews.