Obituary of Daryl Wells Jr

Peacefully with his family at his side at Rouge Valley Health System on Thursday October 13, 2016, in his 57th year. Sadly missed by the love of his life, Joyce. Proud father of Brandon (Ashley) Wells. Cherished stepfather of Cheryl (Vito) Brigantino, Angela (Joe) Adams, Laurel (Gary) Bain and Christopher (Emily) Passero. Beloved grandfather to Dominique, Alexander, Allissia, Brooklyn, Ruby and best friend Lilah (coconut). Dearly missed by sister Wendy (Kevin) Naysmith, nephew Kiefer, stepsister Dana, stepmother Marian Wells, and stepfather Jim Ward. Predeceased by mother Mary and father Daryl Sr. Daryl Jr. always wanted to follow in his father's footsteps, and he did. His late father, Daryl Sr., was a race announcer from the late 1950s until the mid 80s, and was inducted into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame in August 2016. Daryl Jr. started calling races at the Fort Erie Race Track as a 16-year-old in 1976, making him one of, if not the youngest race callers at a recognized track ever in North America. His unforgettable voice was synonymous with the track, as it echoed out of the speakers for 34 years, before he stepped aside as race announcer in 2010. He was also the track's spokesman. Beyond the horse-racing industry, those who met Daryl Jr. came to know him for the genuine, down-to-earth, caring, professional, knowledgeable, and community-oriented human being that he really was. He was the real deal, a great man with tremendous character and a big heart. He will be greatly missed by all those who knew him. The family invite friends for a celebration of life at the Plaice Bar & Grill 981 Garrison Road, Fort Erie on Tuesday October 18th at 6pm following the last day of racing. If so desired, donations to the Ronald McDonald House Charities would be greatly appreciated by the family.