Stephen Haviland Read, 1949-2019.
Steve peacefully passed away on May 22nd, less than three weeks after he was diagnosed with a very aggressive and established cancer. His absence at the farm is surreal and deeply saddening, but we are grateful his suffering was short and that he was able to receive such incredible expressions of love from so many friends and family in his final days.
Steve was pre-deceased by both his parents. His mother, Charlotte, was one of the original breeders of Connemara Ponies in the United States and established Round Robin Farm with his father Bruce. Steve and his wife Pat took on the next generation of Round Robin Farm nearly 40 years ago. Steve was a constant creative and nourishing force behind the steady growth and success of the farm. He embraced life fully and received inspiration always from the beauty and power of nature. This was expressed most passionately through his extreme mountain adventures, the flower gardens he cultivated, and his incredible artistic vision – which transformed countless pieces of wood and stone to reveal their inner beauty and character.
Steve was a patient teacher; a lifelong supporter of the local horse community and the Connemara breed; a lover of music; a wild dancer; a tireless worker; a dedicated father and husband; and a generous, fun-loving soul that touched many throughout his lifetime.
He will be forever missed, but his legacy and life force carry forward within the many people that he inspired, with the farm, with his wife Pat and with his daughter Bekki and month-old grandson Bodhi.
In the place of a memorial service, there will be an informal pot-luck meal and gathering at noon on Saturday June 1st at the farmhouse at Round Robin Farm. All friends and family are welcomed to attend. Parking may be limited, so please carpool if possible. Please bring along your favorite dish, a musical instrument, or some potted flowers to help brighten our window boxes in remembrance of Steve.