In Memory

Passing of Major Eric Taylor (14 Oct 15)

Major Eric Taylor

Fellow Horse Guards:

It is with a heavy heart that I must report the passing of Maj Eric Taylor, CD on Wednesday October 14 in Toronto at the age of 95, surrounded by his family. Following graduation from Trinity College School in 1939, Eric joined and served overseas during the Second World War with the Horse Guards in England, Italy and NW Europe until the conclusion of the war and his return to Canada. In the last 40 years, he served as a Trustee of the Regiment. In total, his service to the Regiment and Canada spanned 76 years.

Eric was devoted to his family and friends, and was the consummate gentleman. He was a great listener and uncommonly passionate about the interests and perspective of those around him. He is survived by his children; Christopher (Shelagh), Julia MacDonald (Michael), and Rick (Nini); his sister, Mary F. Taylor; and brother, Nicholas. A private family service and interment will be held at St. John’s Anglican Church (York Mills).

A memorial service to celebrate Eric’s life will be announced later in the year. If desired, donations in Eric’s memory may be made to the GGHG Foundation or the charity of your choice.


Passing of Jeff Dorfman (2 Sep 14) Honorary Lieutenant Colonel

HLCol Jeff DorfmanIt is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a notable Horse Guard. Our Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Jeff Dorfman passed away at approximately 0530 hrs on Tuesday, September 2, 2014 at Sunnybrook Hospital after a prolonged battle with cancer.

From the ranks of a Trooper, Col Dorfman rose to become the Regimental Sergeant Major and ultimately the Commanding Officer of the Governor General’s Horse Guards.

Among his other accomplishments, Col Dorfman was an avid supporter of the Royal Canadian Military Institute and served as their President for two terms, one of only three people to be extended in almost 125 years of the Institute’s existence. He also chaired the annual gathering of Cavalry officers at the RCMI Cavalry Luncheon, a role that seemed to be his for as long as he wanted it.

There will be many tales in the coming days about Jeff but his continuous connection to the Regiment is unmatched and although he was not a musician, his interest in the Regimental Band was more than casual.

A memorial service will be held at Benjamin’s Park Memorial Chapel, 2401 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, ON M3J 2P1on Friday September 5th at 1:00 p.m. followed by interment at Roselawn Avenue Cemetery, 619 Roselawn Ave., Toronto.

The family has asked that memorial donations be made to The Governor General’s Horse Guards Foundation.


Passing of Amy Bayes (17 Oct 79 – 25 Apr 14) GGHG Cavalry Squadron Rider

amy bayesThe Cavalry Squadron has had to come to terms with the fact that one of our riders, a volunteer, a friend, will no longer ride with us.

For those of you who wish to attend, arrangements are as follows:

Location: Taylor Funeral Home, 524 Davis Drive, Newmarket
The Visitation is Wednesday evening from 6 to 8pm
The Service is Thursday at 11am

In lieu of flowers the family has set up a fund for Amy’s son, Merrick.

Further details can be found at the link below, including a map to Taylor Funeral Home.
http://taylorfuneral.sharingmemories.ca/siteContent/memorial.html?personId=252778&source=memlist