Anton Koolman
xx xx, xxxx - xx xx, xxxx
The racing and equestrian world lost a legend in Anton Koolman (82), who passed peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Saturday 25 June 2022. For those of us privileged to know him, he was a humble man who achieved outstanding success as a horseman. From the wrestling ring in Wellington, to the horseback ridden plains of Waikanae and across the Tasman to the parade ring at Royal Randwick, this man set new benchmarks and touched the hearts of communities wherever he went. Most importantly, he was a remarkable husband, father, brother, uncle and friend. His love affair with Marg exceeded 50 years of marriage and is one we all aspire to and Hollywood scriptwriters should be inspired by. It's with a heavy heart we farewell him but forever hold him in our hearts.
Condolences
Edward Thomas
On behlaf of David, Christian and I, it was a genuine pleasure meeting Anton and having the opportunity to enjoy racehorse ownership with the Koolman family. We feel priviliged to be invloved and even more so to have met Anton on a few occassions. Chatting to him about Funstar and the whole racing industry was insightful and you hung off every word he said. We were fortunate to of met Anton and our condolences to the entire Koolman family. Sir DEC Racing
Irina Acosta
I was saddened to hear of Anton’s passing. He made a significant impression on me, and I only met him twice. The first time was at Andrew’s engagement and then at his wedding to Alex. We had deep and meaningful conversations about life, marriage, his beloved horses, Estonia being part of Scandinavia and not part of the Baltics and his wonderful sons, of whom he was so proud. I grew up fatherless, so I always gravitated toward the happy, kind, salt-of-the-earth and gentlemanly characters. I realised when speaking to him that he had this sense of wonder and a capacity for sheer joy that some of us lose along the road to adulthood. It was such a privilege to meet someone so exceptionally unique. My sincere condolences to the entire Koolman family. Irina x
Angus Murray
We remember one of nature's true gentlemen. Anton, or Mr Koolman as he'll always be to me was a humble, kind, straight talking family man who oozed integrity. I'm very grateful to have known him. My deepest condolences to the entire Koolman clan.
Barry Gartner
As a young sixteen old I joined Anton’s stable as an apprentice jockey. At this time they were living at the Otaki racecourse. I think Marg had just had Oliver. We soon moved to the Lodge which meant loads of hard work and long hours. At the time I thought Anton was a hard task master but a good horseman. I worked with Anton for a number of years traveling overseas to transport horse. What I can say is over the years I have learnt to appreciate those years and gained valuable life skills and not to mention DIY skills. My thoughts are with you Marg, Oliver and Miles Kindest regards Barry Gartner