Joanne Perlich Lethbridge Handicapped Riding Association Fund




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Ongoing Legacy

People often want to do something special to honour and remember a lost family member or friend. When local businessman and well-known resident Tony Perlich died unexpectedly in October, his memory was honoured in a unique way.


"Tony was always smiling, friendly, and encouraging," said wife Joanne Perlich. "I have so many cards and letters from people who all saw him that same way."



"Tony was always so generous in helping the Riding Association," recalled Joanna founding member and enthusiastic supporter of the program. "It makes such a difference to the children. They get exercise that is fun to do and develop a sense of self-confidence and accomplishment."

Horses were also an important part of Tony's life.  He had a great passion for racehorses and spent many hours at the track, with friends cheering on his own horses.  He and Joanne loved riding on their ranch west of Claresholm, "checking the cattle and the rain gauge."


Donations came in a variety of ways.  Laughing, Joanne recalled how longtime friend Ray Nelson sold a herd of buffalo and donated the proceeds to the fund.  "I really appreciate everyone's generous support," she said warmly.  "All the donations made in Tony's memory were a wonderful way to create a lasting gift."


From LCF Report to the Community 2002
Tony Perlich loved his horses and time spent on the ranch.

Many of his friends and associates have also honoured Tony by donating in his memory to a fund Joanne had previously set up to support the Lethbridge Handicapped Riding Association. "When I started the fund, I recognized the value of being under the umbrella of a larger, well-established foundation like the Lethbridge Community Foundation," Joanne explained. The fact that the donations will continue to work forever also appeals to her.
Updated September 2009
www.lethbridgecommunityfoundation.ca
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