Obituary of Helmut Graetz

<b>Online Obituaries for Lexington, Frankfort, and Versailles KY</b> Lexington - Helmut Graetz, 90, died Saturday, September 10, 2016, at home. We have lost a father, husband, friend, teacher and patriot; a man of unshakeable loyalty, compassion and commitment. Helmuts sense of honor and fairness was best communicated through his dedication to promoting, encouraging and sharing horsemanship with individuals and the community. He was the force in the training and development of the Lexington-Fayette Mounted Police Unit; a key player in the evolution of Central Kentucky Riding for Hope; the Masterson Station horse facility, the Keeneland Pony Club, and the Nashville, TN, Pony Club. Helmut served on the Board of the National Pony Clubs and was awarded the status of Legend. He inspired love and respect for horses in more than one generation of all those who had the desire to take part in that world. His sense of humor served to relax and reassure even the most timid riders. In addition, he successfully competed horses he trained as jumpers and eventers, which served as an example of what he believed worked. Helmut was a member of the group that brought the 1978 Three Day Eventing World Championship to the Kentucky Horse Park; the Rolex three Day Event we enjoy today evolved. His sense of justice, perseverance, and quest for perfection transcended his horsemanship and manifested in his involvement with many charities, foundations throughout the area: Friends of KET, Best Friends Alzheimers Care and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass. Helmut retired as an engineer with IBM, Lexington, Ky. Helmut leaves his wife of 64 years, Goodie, Versailles, Ky; sons Michael Graetz, Lexington, Ky, Glenn (Mary Katherine), Graetz, Versailles, Ky and the spirit of son Andy Graetz, other loving relatives and many, many dear friends. There will be a celebration of Helmuts life Sunday, September 18, 1-4 p.m. at the Clark Legacy Center, Brannon Crossing. Memorials may be made to Best Friends, Virginia Bell Fund, 5220 Grey Oak Lane, Nicholasville, KY 40356; and Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, 4185 Walt Robertson Road, Lexington, KY 40511. www.clarklegacycenter.com <b>Funeral Information</b> There will be a celebration of Helmuts life Sunday, September 18, 1-4 p.m. at the Clark Legacy Center, Brannon Crossing.