Ted Gorman

Ted Gorman
Dec 27, 2009

As I'm sure most everyone has heard by now, Ted Gorman, Red Bridge Farm's owner, passed way right after Christmas. Red Bridge seems quieter these days without Ted's cheerful banter around the barn. Ted's impact on SFD's growth this last year and half is immeasurable. I am truly grateful for the boost he gave our business, and saddend at his passing.

Although his sudden passing did leave us scrambling a bit (you never realize how much someone does until they aren't around to do it any more), rest assured, Straight Forward Dressage's business has not been effected.Our busy teaching, training, and special event schedule is going ahead as planned.

Eric Russo, Ted's son-in-law, was left the job of sorting out Ted's affairs. Before all this, poor Eric was a mild-mannered IT guy who knew nothing of the horse business. Between Red Bridge and Yarmouth, Ted's other facility, he is getting a crash course. I had the pleasure of giving him his first TSC shopping list. He has already learned the first lesson--TSC is for pickup trucks, not European sedans.

Below is Ted's obituary, copied from The Daily Local:

Albert E. "Ted" Gorman Jr. of West Chester died on Dec. 27, 2009.


Ted was the beloved husband of Renee V. Gorman (nee Valente), with whom he shared 43 years of marriage.


He was the dear father of Hope G. Krapf and Mimi G. Russo (Eric); and grandfather of Amelia Rose Krapf and Gunnar W. Russo.


Ted is also survived by his sisters, Mary Lou Denney, Joan M. Schimpf and Patricia A. Harrington; and brothers, James J. and Thomas J. Gorman.


Mr. Gorman graduated from William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia and from Babson College in Massachusetts.


He was in the investment business for 40-plus years and was a member of the Orpheus Club of Philadelphia and First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry.


He was also a member of Avalon Yacht Club, Radley Run Country Club, Radnor Hunt and The Vesper Club.


He was passionate about his family and enjoyed singing, boating, the outdoors and horses.