In loving Memory of Linda Mehney

We lost one of our finest ladies in April, 2020 — Linda Mehney, an astute breeder for many years at her Grand Arabian Farm in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Linda reminded us every day of the Arabian’s value as a family horse, as well as a show horse. We shall miss her for her wisdom, her belief in the Arabian breed, and her great joy in being a part of the Arabian horse community.

Some of Linda’s qualities as an Arabian breeder and family member served her equally well as a world traveler. In October 2008, Linda joined our all-girl, five-member, fun/exploration/learning group on a jaunt to Italy. We started our adventuring in Florence, Italy, where we gaped at the usual tourist must-sees: Michelangelo’s “David,” the magnificent Duomo, the wonders of the Uffizi Gallery, then on to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Sienna’s race site, and Harry’s Bar in Venice. Through all these adventures, Linda added a few off-the-path items and we counted on her to find the authentic, non-touristy restaurants as well as wonders not listed in the travel guides. Later came the highlight: being with Linda in Poland for the annual Polish National Arabian Show, the auction, and the races. Here Linda was the scholar, learning from each class, each race, each sale — savoring facts she could combine with the guidelines of her highly successful Arabian breeding program at home. Wherever, whenever, Linda was always of good cheer, the model traveler, and ideal friend.

Linda’s family and friends have provided a collection of memories of Linda, and they are a part of this tribute to Linda. Here are some of their thoughts. All are appreciative of her and her values.

Daughter-in-law

Growing up I had one especially vivid memory of horses. I had gone to a summer “Frontier camp” because the normal summer camp was full. I am allergic to horses, had never ridden and, in truth, was pretty afraid of them.

I was assigned to a horse named “Smokey,” and Smokey was a horrible horse. He had to be in the very back of the trail rides because he would kick all the other horses. Well, needless to say, I was involved in many of the “kicking incidents” over the course of a week. It was the longest summer camp experience of my life. From that time on, I turned away from anything horse related…until I met my future husband and his family.

Keeping my distance, I actually enjoyed watching Linda and her gorgeous horses. I was always in awe of her confidence and passion that she had around her Arabians. As long as I was at a distance, I could appreciate their beauty and power. And then she told us (all 30 of us) that the Christmas card picture was going to be at the barn with some of the horses. Certainly I wouldn’t be asked to “handle” a horse, right?

When we arrived, we were all quickly positioned for the family photo. My four kids were popped