October 21 1927 – June 20 2026
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Al Thorpe, in his 99th year, predeceased by his loving wife, Marlene Thorpe, longtime Muskoka real estate broker.
Born in Toronto, Al eventually settled in Huntsville after having resided in Nashville, Ontario, training, breeding, racing, and showing horses at The Royal Winter Fair, CNE, and local racetracks. He also managed the Arena in Bolton for approx. 5 years before relocating to Bracebridge.
Al became manager of the Huntsville Arena in 1975 and remained in that role until his retirement in 1995. A devoted volunteer and community champion, he was named Lion of the year in 2003, was involved with the Kinsmen, hockey leagues and just about every other organization. Al received the Ontario Volunteer Service Award in 2003, in honour of his commitment to volunteerism. Al eventually moved to Ottawa to help care for Marlene in her final years.
The Al Thorpe room in the Canada Summit Centre was named after him for his dedication as a long-serving town employee who gave back significantly to the community. Al was particularly fond of his fishing trips with his buddies, especially the Temagami ones, his hunt camp adventures, and his regular morning coffee runs with the regulars.
Al leaves behind his children David, Paul, Mark, Elizabeth, and Valerie, as well as their spouses. Also, dear sister-in-law Barb, two special daughters-in-law, Marilyn and Ramona. His grandchildren, Kyle, Kent, Krista, Kristle, Danielle, Emma, William, Lila, and several great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on September 19, 2026.
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Growing up in Huntsville the arena was my second home. Al (Thorpey as we used to call him)was so well versed in all the regular participants who graced the arena floor. It amazed me how he kept tabs on us and what our other interests were, where we lived, names of siblings etc. He was a kind gentle soul who had a good heart and wanted the best for those growing up in Huntsville. Condolences to Al’s family & friends.
RIP Mr Thorpe, I’ll always remember you letting me come out on the floor with my lacrosse stick whenever I wanted❤️