John Lee

Hoosier Park's 2001 Leading Trainer, John Lee, Dies of a Brain Aneurysm

Hoosier Park's 2001 Leading Trainer, Trainer John Lee, 54, died Monday, November 12, 2001, at Bedford Hospital in Bedford, Ohio, of a brain aneurysm.  With 275 wins, Lee was fourth-ranked in the North American training standings.  He stood third at Northfield Park (Ohio), with 168 wins, and was third in the Pompano Park (Florida) training standings, with 16 wins, just two off the lead - early in their meet.  Trainees of the late Lee have earned nearly $1.15 million in purses this year.

Lee was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on March 21, 1947.  He began his career racing in Canada.  Even after he came to the United States to race full-time in 1991, he continued to race horses in Ontario.  He had compiled 1,274 wins in that time.  Lee finished the 2000 season with 260 wins, thus ranking him 6th on the continent.  Lee owned many of his horses himself or in partnership with his longtime companion, Bridgett Burgess, who survives.  He also trained for owners Chuck Campbell of Michigan and Doug Neely of Barberton, Ohio, among others.             

John Lee's funeral was held at the Hoeflinger Funeral Home, Oregon, Ohio (suburb of Toledo) on Friday, November 16, 2001.  Later in the evening, Northfield Park conducted a memorial ceremony for Lee prior to the first race.  Cards may be sent to Bridgett at:  19655 Rockside Road; #801, Bedford, OH  44146