In Loving Memory of Darlene Louks
Quinlan at the WCHA/APHA Halter Million, led by Darlene Louks. Photo: Ruehle Photographix.
We are saddened to share the news of the passing of beloved exhibitor Darlene Louks, wife of Gary Louks, both of Rome, OH.
Those in the horse industry will easily recognize their pride and joy, Quinlan, a double registered 7 Panel N/N stallion, who had a celebrated show career succeeded by his role as a sire, with foals following in his footsteps. Team Quinlan | Double Registered Stallion
Trainer Kathy Smallwood, who says she will miss Darlene, reveals, “Darlene was one of the kindest souls that you could meet. She absolutely loved her horses and showing them was her passion! When she wasn’t at her “real job,” you could find her in her barn cleaning stalls, working horses, or just plain loving on them. Even as her health was deteriorating she loaded up her mare and with determination, took her to an outdoor show only to show her in the rain and being named Grand Champion, all this, shortly before entering the hospital. Lonn and I will miss Darlene along with her “true grit” and friendship. Our condolences go out to our friend and Darlene’s husband, Gary.”
Longtime friend Gordon Downey comments, “She and Gary were a mighty force and humble team, faithful to our sport and with a keen interest in breeding. Tribute To The Sierra was one of their stallions, and Quinlan more recently. I shall Miss Darlene and always remember her selflessness and respect for her horses. Prayers to Gary and family.”
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- Quinlan earned a Reserve World Championship in L3 Weanling Colts at the 2022 AQHA World Show with Randy Jacobs at the lead for Darlene and Gary.
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- Darlene and Quinlan earned a Reserve World Championship in Amateur Select Yearling Colts at the 2023 AQHA World Championship Show.
Below, we share the obituary published on Legacy.com by Lake Erie Cremation and Funeral Services on Jul. 28, 2025.
On Saturday, July 26, 2025, Darlene Anne (Smith) Louks of Rome, Ohio passed away at age 64, surrounded by her loving family. Darlene was born to Ronald and Rachel Smith of Berwick, Maine and throughout her life was an avid and accomplished horsewoman.
Darlene graduated from Noble High School and the University of Southern Maine then had a seasoned career as an accountant for multiple healthcare organizations, most recently University Hospitals based in Cleveland, Ohio.
Darlene married Gary Louks, the love of her life, in 1999 knowing him for many years prior. Darlene and Gary moved to Rome, Ohio, where Horseshoe Lake Farm was born and grew to include multiple buildings, an indoor riding barn, and a pond that hosted many celebratory events over the years. Darlene loved her stepson Stephen and was so proud of his dedication to his son, Landon. She so enjoyed being called Grandma.
In addition to her professional career, Darlene worked passionately to nurture the many horses within her charge, committing time to the necessary everyday tasks, expertly caring for expectant mares and newly born foals, and partnering with skilled Quarter Horse trainers from around the country. Her dedication was rewarded with many accomplishments, apparent from the rows of distinguished trophies and colorful ribbons that encircled every room in her home and barn. She and Gary were most proud of the fourteen World Championships won with several horses.
In fact, Darlene recently mentioned that of the many trips she took over the years, one of her favorites was to the American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show in Oklahoma City. Darlene embodied the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson when he wrote: “Riding a horse is not a gentle hobby, to be picked up and laid down like a game of solitaire. It is a grand passion.”
Darlene was predeceased by her parents and brother, Dale Smith. She is survived by Gary, her husband of 26 years; son Stephen; grandson Landon; sister Brenda and her husband Patrick Gagne ; two nieces and five grandnieces and grandnephews. The family will hold a private service at a later date to celebrate Darlene’s life.
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