Heather Snipper

(1956 - 2022)

Inducted in 2023

Nominated by: Anne Galt , Cathy Gordon , Ron King

Heather Lynn Snipper , aged 66, passed away October 12, 2022 peacefully in the home of a family member after a year long difficult battle with pancreatic cancer. 

Ottawa’s horse community suffered a huge loss with the passing of Heather Snipper. Heather was an icon, as was Dewmont Farms, which she built over 25 years ago in the small community of Ashton, ON. Over the years, many horses and riders passed through Dewmont’s doors - from amateurs to competitors, hunt riders to pony clubbers, all were welcomed. Owners, riders and competitors enjoyed the well manicured grounds, whether for lessons, personal riding or the many horse shows Heather organized each year.

Heather was a huge supporter of equestrian sport. She hosted many hunter-jumper and dressage shows at Dewmont, and opened her land for use by the Ottawa Valley Hunt.

Heather contributed many hours to the OADG, holding several positions in her time as a board member. Even after leaving a formal position on the board, Heather continued to extend her hospitality, hosting the OADG show organizers meeting each year in her home. We always enjoyed good snacks and lively discussions, always sprinkled with humor and bits of choice horse gossip.

Heather had an effect on everyone she met. So many have fond memories of Heather’s sense of humour. One of her particular favourite things to do was talk to staff and boarders over the intercom from the house to the barn. She also loved to ‘scare’ people with tales of Barbara, Dewmont’s friendly ghost. Heather loved Hallowe’en and hosted many costume parties over the years.

Heather was a strong woman and business leader in both the horse and financial worlds. She would always pop by the barn after arriving home from her downtown office to check out what was going on, provide advice, sympathy, a shoulder to cry on, or a good laugh. Under her sometimes brusque exterior, Heather was soft-at-heart. She truly cared about the people and the horses in her life, and would do whatever she could to help those in need. She was always there if you needed her – no questions asked. We will miss seeing her lovely smile in person.