The original family dynasty of one of Victoria’s oldest trotting family’s The Rothacker’s came to an end on July 31 when Ronald Desmond Rothacker known for the majority of his life as “Des” passed away at the age of 97.

Des the son of Bridgewater’s Victor and Susie Rothacker and brother of Eric and Stuart (both deceased), grew up in the sport driving his first winner at the age of 20, plus a number of the family’s horses to victory during the fifties, but will well be remembered for the deeds of Mishkatross, Jonathon Eden and trotter Little Interest which won a flying mile at the Melbourne Showgrounds on April 17, 1971 in a mile rate of 2-09.4 on a very slushy track. Deck Boy was another of his winners during that era.

Des was a keen sportsman in his day playing tennis, golf, football and lawn bowls which he relished, with farming his other passion.

Des is survived by his wife Jean, son Alan and daughter Pam and their families.

Harness Racing Victoria sends sincere condolences to the Rothacker family.

His funeral will be held at the Bridgewater Anglican Church on Wednesday commencing at 11am.