The Canadian equestrian community is saddened to learn of the loss Dianne Tidball, on June 21 at 81 years of age, so shortly after the passing of her husband, George Tidball, also Canadian equestrian industry icon, who passed away June 3 at the age of 83.
Dianne was born in 1932, and in her early years, was in private school in England where she took riding lessons and fell in love with horses. Dianne and her young children moved to the United States to accompany George while he attended Harvard University. While there, Dianne discovered a new type of restaurant that served fast-food called McDonald’s. Dianne suggested to George that the restaurant be brought to Canada when they moved home. The first McDonald’s franchise was brought to western Canada in 1967 courtesy of the Tidballs. The family started a second restaurant franchise, called Keg (n’Cleaver), which opened its doors in 1971 in North Vancouver.
With their incredible forethought and business acumen, Dianne and George purchased 26 acres of land, and built the original Thunderbird facility in 1973, which quickly started to outgrow its location. In 2000, the Thunderbird Show Park opened its doors at the more spacious location at 72nd Avenue and 248th Street in Langley, BC. The venue is now one of North America’s premiere show jumping locations, hosing FEI level competitions.