Landess was always a winner

To the editor:

In memory of the late, great Jerry Landess, I feel compelled to share a memory and tribute.

Over my years on this mortal coil, I've met a few very interesting folks.

For many years, as an American Legion Post commander, district and department of Indiana officer, I would routinely visit other posts around the State of Indiana.

I always looked forward to visiting Portland's thriving American Legion Post back in the day, just to sit and mostly listen, not talk, to this guy. He was a wealth of knowledge and life experiences, and it was truly an honor to cross paths in life with such a truly great man.

Here was an icon of thoroughbred and harness racing. He won 1,980 races in a long, storied and exemplary career. Any time I was at Hoosier Downs and saw him on the racing form as driver and trainer, my money was always on Jerry's horse at the betting window and, more often than not, Jerry drove his horse into the money.

I'll always treasure my memories of him, giant of the sport and an outstanding resident of Jay County.

Goodbye, dear sir, it's post time and St. Peter is at the window placing his money on you. You were always a winner in my book, old friend.

Respectfully,

James D. Fulks III

Dunkirk