In Memoriam: Respected Judge Margaret Murdoch (1923-2013)

Equine Canada news release

Ottawa, ON, December 6, 2013 — Margaret “Maggie” Murdoch, respected Equine Canada Judge and FEI level 3 Steward, passed away on December 3, 2013 in her hometown of Orangeville, ON in her 90th year.

Ms. Murdoch first became a member of Equine Canada in 1952. By 1989, had become a certified Equine Canada jumping judge working events in Ontario, and by 1992 was a qualified steward in jumping and dressage; serving as the FEI General Stewart for dressage for many years. Over the past 24 years she has represented Canada at both EC sanctioned and FEI events, her most recent being the 2013 Cornerstone Spring into Dressage this past June.

“Maggie was a mentor in our equestrian family, and a leader in our FEI education through the early years. However, I shall recall Maggie for her wicked sense of humour. She could tell a story and just leave you giggling. She had the gift of putting you at ease, a great asset when dealing with nervous competitors! She will be sorely missed,” stated Jan Stephens, FEI Canadian Steward General, for Jumping and Eventing.

Ms. Murdoch was also an FEI Level 2 Para-Equestrian Dressage Steward. She was Chief Steward at the 2006 Pacific Rim International Para-Equestrian Dressage Competition held in Langley, British Columbia as well as the 2010 WindReach International Para-Equestrian Dressage competition held in Ashburn, Ontario. In 2007, Ms. Murdoch joined the Canadian Para-Equestrian Committee (CPEC), and remained a valued member until 2011. She was also a member of the Para-Equestrian Officials Committee from 2006-2010.

“Maggie was an incredible staunch supporter of equestrian sport in Canada, and will be very missed by many in the community. Maggie was always a steadying figure whose integrity, depth of knowledge and experience always proved to be invaluable, particularly to those fortunate enough to have worked and mentored with her throughout the years. The equestrian community owes Maggie a great debt of gratitude,” commented Kerri McGregor, member of the Board of Directors, Equine Canada.

Ms. Murdoch will be remembered for her passion, commitment and contributions to furthering excellence in Canada’s equestrian sport.

On behalf of Equine Canada we extend our sincerest condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues.

Funeral Service will be held at Dods & McNair Funeral Home & Chapel, 2-1 First St., Orangeville (519) 941-1392 ) on Friday, December 13, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. Family will receive friends on Thursday, December 12, 2013 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Headwaters Health Care Foundation or a charity of choice.

A tree will be planted in Ms. Murdoch’s memory in the Dods & McNair Memorial Forest at the Island Lake Conservation Area, Orangeville. A dedication service will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2014 at 2:30 p.m.