International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame member Bob Skradzio, Sr., passed away in late February at the age of 79. His wife, Aleen, three daughters and seven grandchildren survive the certified journeyman farrier from Ambler, Pa.

“In the true Skradzio style, he shod his last horse just days before he was beckoned to a higher calling,” says long-time friend and fellow Hall Of Famer Dave Duckett. Over the years, Skradzio earned a great reputation in the hoof-care world as both a great technician and clinician.

At the request of the family, a memorial fund has been set up in Skradzio’s name to serve as a scholarship fund for young farriers as well as an emergency fund for farriers in time of distress.

A 2004 American Farriers Journal “Frankly Speaking” column featured a number of Skardzio’s thoughts regarding the early days of a horseshoeing career that covered 65 years. You’ll find these interesting comments on the AFJ Web site at www.americanfarriers.com under “News.” 

Bob Skradzio

OTHER INDUSTRY NEWS...

• Tim Shannon of Moreno, Calif., won our recent online equine-themed tattoo contest.

“The horses in the center represent my three kids and my love of horses,” Shannon says of the tattoo. “The horseshoe contains two birds intertwined, representing my wife and I. We are wrapped around our kids representing family. The horseshoe represents my passion for my chosen profession. All of the Celtic knot work represents my Scottish and Irish heritage.”

For his victory, Shannon won a 1-year subscription to American Farriers Journal. The…