East Brookfield, Mass., farrier Robert "Red Ryder" Trudeau passed away Saturday, March 24, 2018. He was 73.

Trudeau began riding horses at a very young age, and his fondness for them drove him to pursue a career in farriery after retiring from the U.S. Army. He served for 3 years in Germany. Two years after returning home and marrying his high school sweetheart, Trudeau began his farrier education at the University of Maine in Orono, where he earned his diploma. He decided to continue his training at the Bob Gerkin School of Horseshoeing in Houston, Texas. He worked as a certified farrier in the Central Massachusetts area for over 45 years, and worked at United Parcel Service for over 30 years.

A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, April 14, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 121 Blaine Ave., East Brookfield. Calling hours will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. in the same location. Those who wish to may send flowers to the church. Donations may be made to Happy Trails Children's Foundation or to umassmemorialhealthcare.org in Trudeau's name. To leave an online tribute, please visit Pillsburyfuneralhome.com.