A long-time fixture in the farrier industry, Beth Garner, passed away in late January. One of the owners of G.E. Forge & Tool in Grover Beach, Calif. She was 93.

Garner grew up in rural Ohio, attended business college and moved to California in 1942 where she worked for the National Concert and Artist’s Corp. in Hollywood.

She had three children, Ann, Susan and Robert, the current owner of G.E. Forge & Tool. In addition, she served as a “second mom” to several neighborhood children, was active with the League of Women Voters and was a strong advocate for minorities, disadvantaged and others who were discriminated against.

After purchasing G.E. Tool & Forge, the family moved to Grover Beach, where she played an active role in the business and served as a visionary in the farrier industry for many years. She also helped form the Farrier Industry Association and was instrumental in promoting hoof-care education and research.

After retirement, she traveled throughout the world with her trusted friend John DuBose. As family members recalled, “She lived life to the fullest and enjoyed many adventures and people along the way. She will be remembered for her easy laugh and her ‘glass half-full’ approach to life.”

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