International Horseshoeing Hall of Fame member Gunner Gatski has passed away.

The Lebanon, Ohio, farrier left an indelible mark on the industry with tool innovations such as the Gunner hammer, bent anvil, cams, ergonomic tool handles and forge design.

As an early member of the American Farriers Team, his skills stood out among his peers. He was always a fierce competitor at the highest level, but always shared his knowledge openly. As a judge, he always challenged the competitors and gave great feedback.

Gatski was generous with his time and knowledge. He was never too busy to stop and help, demonstrate or explain.

“He was so passionate and dynamic about horseshoeing,” recalls Grant Moon, a fellow Hall of Fame farrier from New Market, England. “To meet him was inspiring. He had this electric enthusiasm for the job. Like a lot of creative people, he had an unmatched dedication for what he did. He made me want to learn more about hoof balance and how the horse worked. Over the years, I’ve run into him several times. He would always provoke thinking, challenge your thinking and speak to you on your level. He is a terrific ambassador for the farrier industry.”

Gatski brought down the house during his 2017 induction into the International Horseshoeing Hall of Fame at the International Hoof-Care Summit.

“In 50 years of horseshoeing, you have days that are humorous, and I can remember so many of them, but my favorite was the day when I killed the prized Polish chicken,” Gatski told attendees. You can listen to his entertaining acceptance speech here and watch him tell the story of “The Horse with the Golden Shoes” here.

Funeral services are pending.

Learn More

  • Gunner Gatski’s 2017 International Halls Of Fame Acceptance Speech: Lebanon, Ohio, farrier Gunner Gatski entertained 2017 International Hoof-Care Summit attendees during his acceptance speech for the International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame by sharing stories of his run in with “the prized Polish chicken” and how he “almost became famous for nailing on golden shoes.”
  • Gunner Gatski: The Horse With The Golden Shoes: Gunner Gatski shares the story of “The Horse With The Golden Shoes” during his acceptance speech for the International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame at the 2017 International Hoof-Care Summit in Cincinnati, Ohio.