Barton Heller, Co-Owner of Dixie Dot Com, Dies

Northern California-based owner Barton Heller, whose Dixie Dot Com is preparing to run in the Pacific Classic (gr. I), died of a heart attack Friday morning at Stanford Hospital prior to minor surgery. The 63-year-old had been battling cancer.

"We've lost a great friend, a very close friend," said William Morey Jr., who trained Dixie Dot Com throughout his career. "He loved the sport and was a hands-on owner."

A memorial service will be held at the Turf Club at Golden Gate Fields on Monday at 10:00 a.m.