Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 1, in Lexington, Ky., for Robert D. “Bob” Maxwell, a longtime respected executive at Sallee Horse Vans who died March 28, one day after his 82nd birthday.
Born in Lexington March 27, 1941, Maxwell was a graduate of Lafayette High School and was a 1994 inductee of the school's Hall of Fame. He was in his early 20s when he joined his parents, Robert S. and Arminda, and sister, Patsy, in purchasing Sallee Horse Vans in 1963. Serving as vice president of the Lexington-based company, Maxwell helped grow Sallee from three trucks to a fleet of 65 vehicles by 2006, when he retired and the company was sold to his niece, Nicole Pieratt.
Recognized as a national leader in the horse transportation business, Maxwell was elected president of the National Horse Carriers Association in 1974 and was called upon to testify before Congress and act as an expert witness in numerous civil trials.
Many will remember Maxwell for his kindness and generosity. Hall of Fame trainer Shug McGaughey told Bloodhorse.com Maxwell “would bend over backwards to help you.” McGaughey said Maxwell was especially generous to young horsepeople just getting their careers started.
Robert Maxwell is survived by his wife of 52 years, Ramona (Hempfling) Maxwell; daughters Maria McNamara; Tara Elliott; and Robin Hudson; son Robert “Ryan” Maxwell; and six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
A devout Christian, Maxwell was involved with the church throughout his life, serving on the Pastor's Advisory Committee at Man O War Church, where he was an active member at the time of his death.
Visitation will be April 1 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. ET with funeral services to follow at Man O War Church of God, 1501 Trent Boulevard in Lexington.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the Racetrack Chaplaincy of America or Man O War Church of God.
The post Robert Maxwell, 82, Passes; Longtime Sallee Horse Vans Executive appeared first on Horse Racing News | Paulick Report.
