Hall Of Fame Athlete Passes After Long Fight With Cancer

A local man, who was a member of the Ohio Harness Racing Hall of Fame, has died of cancer.

66-year-old Dan E. Ater of Clarksburg was well-known for his athletic exploits at Adena High School in the early 1970’s, then later carried that ability to become one of harness racings great drivers.

“Ater died at his residence Monday morning following a courageous 20-year battle with cancer”, according to the obituary from Haller Funeral Home.

Before becoming a successful harness racing driver and trainer, Ater was known for his athleticism in track, football and basketball at Adena High School. Ater placed second in low hurdles and third in the high hurdles on Adena’s 1972 State Championship team, the first Ross County high school to ever win a state team sports title.

Ater was also a Deerfield Township Trustee for 24 years.

Graveside services will be held at 11am Friday, May 28, in Ater Cemetery, Clarksburg. In keeping with his request, calling hours will be from 1pm-8pm Thursday at Dan’s horse barn, 1702 Stingy Lane, Clarksburg, OH, 43115.