Death Of Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions Owner Mourned

MYAKKA CITY, FL — Gabriella Herrmann, who ran her family’s Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions Myakka City ranch and touring show since 2004, died unexpectedly Saturday morning, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser for the family.

Herrmann was 66 years old when she died, the Bradenton Herald reported.

Her daughter, Rebecca McCullough, told the newspaper that her mother “had breathing and congestive issues” in recent months and that when her condition got worse, she went to the hospital, where she died.

“They think it was a heart attack brought on by a pulmonary embolism,” McCullough said.

The Herrmann family has a long history in Manatee County with their performing Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions.

“Gabriella and her family have been training and caring for the Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions, the mares, and rescue horses on their ranch in Myakka City, just east of Sarasota since the Sixties,” according to the GoFundMe fundraiser.

As of Thursday afternoon, more than $3,600 has raised. The funds will be used to build a retirement area for the mares in Herrmann’s memory.

One donor acknowledged the “many years of wonder and delight from the horses and their family.”

There was also an outpouring of love and support for the family on the Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions Facebook page.

“What a great lady and a great horsewoman. Thinking of you all,” posted Karyn Enos, who said she’s seen their show about 10 times and once took a lesson at their Myakka City farm.

Mandy Wilson posted, “My condolences to the whole family and to the farm. I loved going to visit and watch practices in the winter in Florida. Watching and listening to Gabby was an absolute delight and I’m glad I’ve had the chance to meet and talk to her.”

McCullough will continue the family tradition.

The Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions Facebook page posted, “The Show Must Go On, and It Will… Gabby would want it to continue, and we want the tradition to continue, and with your help, we will make it so.”

The ranch, located at 32755 Singletary Road in Myakka City, will open Thursday and Friday at 2 p.m. and Saturday at 9 a.m. to allow the public to watch their practice shows. The final show of the season will be May 1.