The Canadian equestrian community is saddened to learn of the loss of Shannon Burwash, who passed away February 15, 2013.

Shannon was born in Calgary, AB. She had many passions in life including family, accounting and horses. She was very involved in the Quarter Horse industry serving on many boards to further promote the horse. She tirelessly volunteered on the Equine Canada Health and Welfare committee, serving the industry that she was passionate about with her experience as a breeder, owner and rider.

“We were very fortunate to have had Shannon serving on our Committee. She was a true horsewoman who put horse health and welfare as a highest priority,” states Dr. Mary Bell, co-chair of the Health and Welfare Committee. “She will be missed.”

Her volunteerism also extended to being an active board member and treasurer for the Quarter Horse Association of Alberta (QHAA), treasurer for the Canadian Quarter Horse Association (CQHA) and an Alberta director for the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA).

“Our sincere sympathies to Wayne and their family on Shannon’s passing,” added Dr. Edward Kendall, past-president of Equine Canada and former chair of the Industry Division. “Aside from being just a great person, Shannon was a great contributor to all aspects of the horse industry. She brought clear insight to our discussions and always delivered her perspectives with kindness.”

Shannon loved riding and showing horses all over North America, and promoted good horsemanship skills to all of her children. She loved the western lifestyle, and was a great assistance to her husband Dr. Wayne Burwash in operating his equine veterinary practice over the years in Springbank, AB.

A memorial service for Shannon will be held in the Congress Hall at Spruce Meadows (access via Tournament Lane) on Saturday, February 23, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Warren Wiebe officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes in Shannon’s memory may be given to the Alberta Children’s Hospital www.childrenshospital.ab.ca or STARS http://stars.ca. Condolences may be forwarded through www.cochranecountryfuneralhome.com.

Equine Canada would like to extend its deepest sympathies to Shannon’s family and friends.