A family member dies prematurely

Decatur Daily Democrat:

He wasn't as famous as Secretariat or Seabiscuit or Man 'o War, but he was quite well-known in the world of mounted competitions — a seven-time state champion, a two-time national champion, a reserve world champion.
Now, he's gone at the age of just 11. It was like the death of a family member.
Paycos Bill, a renowned equine racer from rural Decatur, died recently, perhaps from aneurysm, while being ridden by Callie Jo Friedt, his best friend, constant rider, owner, and trainer.....