In Loving Memory

Forever a good, sweet, handsome boy.

Rest in Peace sweet boy. See you at the Rainbow Bridge. We love you 💖

To My Beloved Jireh (2010–2025) I brought you home in March 2010, a tiny three-month-old pup flown in from an out-of-state breeder. I was in California, finishing my doctorate, newly initiated into my sorority, and adjusting to life without my daughter, who had just left for college. I was afraid to be alone, and, if I’m honest, I was used to taking care of someone. You became that someone. I still remember seeing you at baggage pickup in your little carry-on crate. I was so excited to meet you. We went straight to the pet store to gather everything you needed to feel welcomed. It was the beginning of something sacred and sweet, though not always easy—we were both transitioning, learning each other. In 2013, we took our first road trip from California to Minnesota. You got motion sickness, poor baby, but we made it through. You stayed in hotels with me, visited the Grand Canyon, and adjusted through every move. From California to Minnesota, then to Chicago, and back to Minnesota with Ari while I secured our next home, followed by a move to Kentucky in 2022, and finally back to Chicago in 2024. You were my road companion, my plane buddy, my home. You were gentle, sweet, and kind to everyone. Not much of a protector, except when Ari got more attention than you, but loyal in your own quiet, beautiful way. Even when confusion set in and glaucoma clouded your vision, you always knew where I was. You always found me. Your aging was gradual, but the health challenges piled up. Glaucoma. Loss of mobility. Restlessness. And eventually, you seemed tired. Still here, still holding on, but not fully living. When the vet gently suggested end-of-life care, I cried. I knew you were nearing your final chapter, but I wasn’t ready. Not yet. But after some time and reflection, with the help of a compassionate vet, I realized I had been holding on more for me than for you. And I loved you too much to let you suffer or die afraid in a cold clinic. So I said yes to peace. Dr. Mike from Lap of Love came to our home. He was gentle and patient, moving at a pace that honored you and me. You enjoyed some delicious treats, your last meal, and then peacefully transitioned into rest. He placed you in a soft basket with warm blankets, as if you were just sleeping. I held you one last time. I kissed your sweet face. And I let you go. Jireh, thank you for being a steady companion through so many seasons. Thank you for your love, your presence, your softness, and your loyalty. Thank you for letting me love you and for loving me back with such quiet, unfiltered grace. Sleep peacefully, my love. I’ll see you at the Rainbow Bridge. – Your person

To the best pup and "big brother" a family could ask for.

It’s been so hard trying to carry on after letting you go. You were my constant for 11.5 years, and I miss you more than words can say. My heart aches every day because you are not here. I’ll always remember how excited you’d get for food and the way you’d look at me with your sweet, big, round brown eyes. You were the gentlest, sweetest, best companion I could have ever asked for. I’ll never forget our moments in the park, our drive-thru adventures, or how you’d follow me everywhere with those short, stumpy legs. I’ll always remember how happy you were to see me come home—before I could take you to work with me. You could melt away a bad day with your joy and excitement. I'll also never forget the playful moments, or the moments where I would bury my face into the back of your neck or shoulder. You were so important to me. You gave me comfort and joy - so much of it. You were my Boo-Bears. My Saidster. My Little Nugget. I feel so lucky that you chose me—and only me—to be yours. You will never be forgotten.

Love you my sweet shine (mama).

You stayed until the kids no longer needed guarding, until we could let you go. You gave your all, even at the end. Now rest, sweet boy. Your job is done.

I will love you forever.

Oliver, you were the best pup a family could have asked for. You were always patient with us and gave us unconditional love. Your departure has left a hole greater than we could have imagined in our home and hearts. We will miss having you on car rides; we will miss hearing you snore at night, lulling Dad to sleep. We will miss your tip-tapping at 7:30 every morning, your late night water sessions, and your "singing" while being bathed. Thank you for all you gave to our family. We love you Oliver, and we look forward to reuniting on the other side.

Best Kitty Ever To There Was.