Obituary of Robert Joseph Panarisi

After spending the last 61 years shovelling manure and hollering “whoa” Robert ‘Corky’ Panarisi passed away at L.H.S.C. University Hospital on Thursday, May 21st, 2015 at the age of 85. He was born in the year of the horse and devoted his life to their study. In particular, the way in which they moved when they were sound, and when they were not. Corky was predeceased by his wife of 39 years, Mary Ann (nee Wright). He will be forever missed by his children Nora (Steve) Grega, Felice (Dede) Panarisi, and Carl (Bonnie) Panarisi. Grandfather to Nicholas, Jessica, Joshua, Bobby and Megan and cherished great-grandfather of Miles. Corky worked with many horsemen and vets up and down the East Coast and in both Ontario and Quebec. He owned and operated his own stable in Ontario and spent 40 years training various horses; Corky always loved to take on the “problem” cases, and any horse with “bad legs.” A series of strokes allowed him to embrace his passion for research and reading. He never looked to bypass science, but rather sought to extend the scope of the veterinary field. Corky also delved in real estate, working with Oliver and Associates. Robert is survived by his siblings Jenny Bochiaro and Joe Panarisi. Corky was proud of his affiliation with the Masonic Lodge, having served as Worshipful Master in 1979. He will be remembered by his friends, extended family and those who are continually influenced by the Special Ability Riding Institute and D’Al School of Equine Massage Therapy, of which he was instrumental in establishing. A Committal Service will be held at Strathroy Cemetery, 585 Metcalfe Street West, Strathroy, on Friday, May 29th, 2015 at 1p.m. Share a memory at www.denning.ca.