If there are hoof beats in heaven, they are heading toward Ronnie Willis. Famed horseman, Ronnie Willis, died in his sleep on Tuesday, May 20, of an apparent heart attack. Willis, 61, was known and loved by horse enthusiasts around the world. �He had an uncanny ability to read and understand horses,� said William Kriegel, owner of the La Cense Montana ranch where Willis was the head trainer.
 
�The loss to La Cense and to the entire horse world is incalculable,� said Kriegel. �Ronnie was among the most knowledgeable, caring, professional and committed horsemen the world has ever known. We will carry on our training and natural horsemanship commitments in his name with pride and honor.�
 
Pat Parelli, an early student of Willis�, announced Willis� passing Wednesday morning to a crowded arena at the opening of the second day of his �Success With Horses Tour� at the La Cense ranch. �Ronnie was my brother...he won the race,� Parelli said. �Ronnie has gone to horseman�s heaven. This is a day to celebrate  his life...He made the world a better place.�
 
Willis is survived by his wife of 43 years, Gina, and their son Gary �Poncho� Willis.