Year 2004 Tributes

Icey Thru Izzabella

To my Icey
We had many good years together, you, me, miss Mandy. I love you very much and I am going to miss you like crazy. your presence in our lives made us richer and always happy. ill always remember all the good times we had, the way you scratched my face the first time I met you, the trips to the cottage and the unconditional love you gave us thru out the years. you were a great companion and a true friend. I am sorry about the way in which we had to say goodbye. I want you to know that I did not want you to suffer one bit and I knew that you were going to a better place. you are with Mandy now and that comforts me some. I miss you gyes like mad. I wish we could always be together but I know that for now we can not. one day when it is my time, I will see you and Mandy again. we will reunite and be together forever. until than, you be good, stay with miss Mandy, she will take care of you. I love you Iceybluelovich, I love you forever, you will always be in my heart.

Brenda Yakich

I will miss you, my white shadow. I hope that your cheerful and selfless spirit will continue to brighten my days. Give kisses to Dulcie, Demon, Fergie, and Pu for me and wait for me at the Bridge. I love you always.

Stefani Pritchard

Ignatius, you still are my lil' buddy, my baby, my friend, my comedian, my rock, my monkeycat.
Thank you for making me take myself less seriously and for making me less selfish.

Sarah

We know that you are now in a better place with my mom and know that she wanted you shortly after she passed to take care of her and so that she could take care of you also. Your illness was swift and we know that you are no longer in pain and are running and playing as you once did. We miss you and love you very much.

Patty Postle

Be a good boy. We'll miss you.

Scott & Lisa Graves

My baby, "pasam" my darling. I remember you squinting your beautiful eyes at me one last time. You were asking for something and I didn't understand. You weren't asking to be let out, I know it. But you went out unwillingly all the same. If only I got up and let you back in! I felt it in my heart I should have.. I should have, but I didn't. It kills me to remember you laying on the grass.. Your beautiful eyes.. your little head.. You looked as if you were asleep, but. Oh I wish to God I got up! Ilhan, I miss you so much, I've cried my own eyes out. But you're not here to see it... Sleep on my baby, I'll be with you soon. I just hope God put's His little Angel in his deserving place. I miss you paws, I miss your smell, I miss your voice, and your eyes, oh God I miss the way you looked at me, rested against me, watched me from the roof. Luna was looking for you last night. She doesn't know you left us. She's still scared, but believe me she will miss you. Oh Ilhan, you were a heaven sent, and heaven took you from me. I don't know who did this to you and me but God knows. I see you everywhere I look, I hear your voice in my head. I can't turn a corner without a memory. You put a smile on my face, and I'm miserable in your absence... I've opened my whole heart to you, and I hope you've led a happy life in your time here with us. I know your little heart was beating with love for all of us, and I only wish we were as good to you as you were to us.. I didn't see it coming, I felt it, but I didn't do anything. Had I only followed my instinct and not let you out, you would be here in my arms.. Ilhan, "cok uzaga gitme, bebegim". Take care of yourself. I will love you to my last breath. Mummy will be with you soon. I promise.

I love you Smoochies. We'll love you forever.

Melissa Wintturi

Imogene was a very sweet loving girl. She enjoyed her food and always informed me when the bowl got low. She also loved having her face and chin stroked. More than anything else she loved going outside and chewing on the grass. I loved you so much baby, since that first night I found you underneath that car and you insisted on comming inside. I hope I didn't put you through too much. It was so hard to let you go. I'm glad I was with you in the final moments and I pray that you weren't frightened.I also pray that it was peaceful and completely painless for you. I miss you and will always love you.

Karen

Inca, it's been six long months since I lost you, and you are with me every day. The vets and I tried everything we could to save you, but I had to do what was best for you, my dear and most precious Inca. After you were gone, I held you in the vet's office and told you how much I loved you for a long time, and if you were with me, as I think you were, you know that I took you home and rocked you until it was time to part with you. I loved you so very, very much and I still do. I've cried nearly every day for you. You were my first cat, and I couldn't have asked for a more wonderful kitty than you. I miss you curled up around my neck so much, and I miss your sitting on my lap, purring and always so very, very connected with me. We had a special bond, Inca, and that will always be in my heart. I love you beyond words, and you brought me such happiness and joy and love.

In loving memory of my most cherished and beloved Inca. I will see you again.

Mommy

Yes, Baby Indi. Yes, Baby Blue.

I will always be here.

I will always love you.

Carol Dean-Toder, James Toder, Chloe Toder and Taz Toder

Indiana,

It was very hard for us to let go of you, as we loved you so much. We had to do it for you, as you were suffering so. Despite everything we had done along with the vet. We will always remember you and love you always.

Love Mommy & Daddy

You will always be my big baby boy. My big puppy. Please forgive me. I couldn't let you go. I miss you terribly. And always will. Nine years were too little time. They went by so fast. Now you are with Ingo. I'm sure that he came to get you. And I think that you saw the rainbow bridge because you kept your eyes up and staring at something that only you could see. There was peace and something else in them. I cry because it will pass some time before I can be with you again. Thank you for being "my" dog forever after. I love you Indy.

Anny

I love you Miaow.

Carly

To my beautiful loyal blue. To me you were the sun and the stars and the sky above. I will miss you forever. It is my deepest desire that you have found your courage. You made me a much better human by gracing me with your unconditional love. Wait for me my Indy dog. I love you.

Annette Ruttan

Indy was the sweetest little dog in the world.
She was a loving and affectionate pet and dependable friend. We are broken hearted that she is gone. We miss her greatly.

Gary Rardin & Susan McCann

May 24, 2004 (nine days after your 16th birthday)

Here it is almost three months since I lost Indy and still I find myself weeping uncontrollably after coming across this website and reading the Rainbow Bridge poetry. I guess it was supposed to happen this way though because I am having to move out of the home we shared in a few weeks because it has been sold by the owners... so I guess she's telling me it's time to move on.

So, the following is a tribute to my beloved canine Indiana, known hereafter as “Indy.” Indy died on March 4, 2004 and was 15 years, 9 months and 20 days young. This is her story.

An unusual mix of Norwegian Elkhound and German Shepherd, Indy was rescued in August of 1988 from an apartment complex in Dallas when she about twelve weeks old.

My friend Donna, the building’s part-time manager, discovered a young puppy in an apartment after the tenant moved out. If being abandoned wasn’t traumatic enough, there’s more. The puppy wasn’t left to roam the apartment while her previous “owners” (and I use that term loosely…) made a quick get-away. She was found whimpering in a locked closet without food, water or light. It was Monday morning and the people had moved out the Friday before, so she had probably been imprisoned for almost three days. Clearly then, she had been left to fend for herself, and were it not for luck and Indy's fortitude, she would have perished within a couple of days. I weep openly thinking of that happening to her, and cannot imagine how anyone could possibly be so vicious and cruel.

There's a silver lining though, actually, a couple of them. I firmly believe that this traumatic event early in Indy's life, somehow primed her, and gave her the strength to face many battles in her life, including major illnesses, being hit by a car, and being dog-napped and taken out of the state later to be returned to her family in San Francisco. Were it not for the savagery of the soul-sick people who left her behind that day, Indy would not have arrived so dramatically in my life, and the experiences of last sixteen years with her, would not exist, as I know them now. But they do – and I am here to celebrate the many incredible years I had with this unique, intelligent, funny, and inspirational dog.

Indy was my constant companion, my traveling buddy, my supportive roommate, my teacher, and the most significant family I have outside of my family of origin. We were apart for a total of about six weeks over those 16 years, so we definitely qualify as “joined at the hip.”

I cannot say enough about the power of sharing one’s life with another creature, animal or human. I am forever changed by having Indy in my life. Abandoned and left to die very early, she instead lived a long, wonderful and fulfilling life with me. Indy was a font of affection, a caring soul who never tired of giving, and a master at demonstrating the power of unconditional love. She inspired me to reach out and give the world the best I have to offer. She showed me how to give freely of myself, how to listen more and speak less, and how to open my heart to receive the gifts of others.

But the greatest lesson Indy taught was the idea of living in the moment. Unlike human beings, it is my firm belief that animals do not spend a lot of time future tripping – wondering what’s going to happen next, wishing and hoping for specific things to occur. One need only spend an hour with any animal to see that their apparent joy in life isn’t based on what they have, but is instead predicated on making the most of what’s right in front of them - simple to understand, but hard to practice. When I have difficulty practicing this ideal in my own life, I need only recall Indy when it came time to go riding in the car. She would go wild, dancing and running back and forth to the car, never knowing where we were going. The thing is, she didn’t care. To her the journey was the destination.

Anyone who knew Indy knew she was enthusiastic about everything. She lived a long, full life filled with people who loved her. Indy was a real trouper, enduring the complications of Addison’s disease, and all of its treatment implications, for many years. Rarely did she seem to be the least bit affected. She lived forcefully until the very last minutes of her life. I was blessed to have her in my life for so long, and to hold her in my arms as she took her last breath.

Because Indy had several brushes with death over the years, I had some time to contemplate the day that I would lose her. I knew it would be difficult, but I was not prepared for the full impact of her death. Nor did I know that I would feel so empty and lost. As part of the necessary grief work and to begin the long process of healing my soul, I designed and created a short movie, a slide show really of about 150 photos I had taken of her over the years. I wanted to reflect on this incredible creature that came into my life accidentally, and share those memories with others.

The activities Indy loved the most in life were riding in the car with the windows down, even at 70 m.p.h. - destination irrelevant; getting new squeaky toys, which she would squeak (“Make it talk Indy…”) when she felt she was lacking adequate attention, ever reminding us of her presence; lying under anything; eating anything but her own food; sleeping on any bed except hers; “guarding” the top of any staircase; finding and unwrapping her Christmas presents; and lying upside-down as much as possible.

I created a web page in her memory and shared it with the many F.O.I. (friends of Indy) out there who loved her. That has also been a healing experience the likes of which has never passed my way before, and I am truly grateful for all the support the animal lover's community has given me in the last few weeks as I grieved for Indy.

On Thursday, March 4, 2004, as I held her gently in my arms, she took her last breath and passed peacefully into her next life. She had reached the ripe old age of 15 years and 9 months, which is 110 in dog years. Bearing witness to her death was at once devastating, surreal, and serenely beautiful.

I miss her desperately, but I'm certain I’ll see her again.

So here’s to you punkin-dog. You’ve got the world on a string – just don’t forget your squeaker toy! See you in the next life!

All My Love, Daddy Trey

Ingelby you were a real classic cat! My true friend, soul-mate and over so many years - my confidant. You filled up my life so much and there is so much space now without you. Miss you endlessly - love you forever - always missed.xxx Lisa too is heartbroken having only had you in her life for 3 years - she loved you to bits!! Squirrel (your little sister) has now realised you have gone and is missing you so much - her buddy and protector has gone but she will never forget you. xxxx Jumble (the Dog) misses you - her days are not the same now - she loved you and misses you very much - she has no one to get jealous over now and misses competing with you for the sofa!!!

Night Night Ingelby - you made our lives so rich - that's why the pain is so deep. Love you lots xx

Lorraine and Lisa

Inka you will be missed.

The Butcher Family

You left too soon and there will never be any cat to replace you. I miss your warmth, and the calming sound of your voice. Twinkles and I will never stop looking for you, and missing you, when we realize that you aren't coming. You will always have a special place in my heart.

Bernita Czerpak

Thank you for all the joy and meaning you brought into my life, For all those difficult times you stayed at my side.

For you unconditional loyalty and gentle protection. Your family misses you. Rest in peace my dear sweet giant.

Luis G Suarez Benton

The princess of our feline family...missed terribly by human & feline family..succumed to cancer..

Bob & Alison Caruso

To my dear Irish, I am sorry you had to suffer, and I wish I could have been there to help you through your worst hour. For the last 6 years, you have been a great friend, my favorite family member. I say a prayer for you, for wherever you are, may you never have another day of sorrow. Don't you worry, mommy would be with you one day, once again. I love you baby girl.

Darlene Johnson

I miss you so much my goofy kitty. You're with Becky now and in my heart forever. I'm having a tough time right now but I know you're in a better place. I love you Irvy kitty.

Colleen

May he Rest in Peace and know that we love him.

Ewa, Andrzej & Ingrid

Thank you God for the wonderful years I had with Isabella, my best friend, daughter and companion.

Laura

Isabelle was really my first "child". I loved being with her so much. I remember being so offended when I couldn't bring her with me shopping or to eat out. Now that I have two children, I realize that love is an amazing expanding creature. When I lost Isabelle I thought my heart would close. It did not. So now when I think of her, I remember how happy she made our other family dog and cat. And how happy she made me. They too have suffered, but we have all learned to love again. Thank you Isabelle, you were great.

Kristine Mothershead

I miss her so much, it takes my breath away.

I'm so sorry, my sweet girl.

Jennifer

To Isadora: although so many years have passed I still remember you and always will. I remember your soft fur, your large green eyes and your cute little nose. Your time on earth was much too short, but I hope you are happy now and will wait for me. Love always, Anna-Lena (mommy).

To my beloved and faithful friend of almost 20 years, Ishtar. Be at peace dear one.

Kat Peters

To our beautiful grey and white fluffy icypole, The light you bought into our lives has forever changed us. We will always remember your crazy antics and those huge green expressive eyes. We are so sorry you had to endure any pain in this lifetime, we didn't know you were so sick and we are sorry darling boy. you are our little angel forever in our hearts and minds. There will never be another cat like you with your warmth and kindness and gorgeous spirit. Your brother misses you very much like we all do. Thank you for coming into our lives we were so blessed to have had you here if only for a short time. Be at peace little man. We will always love you.

Jacinta and Jason

Companion and friend for 15 years.
Always gentle, loyal, loving and accepting of everyone.
Forever in our hearts... until we meet again.
R.I.P. Itchy... my old boy.

Amanda Klein

You were our study-buddy, our snuggle-buddy, and such an entertaining and joyous part of our lives. We miss you terribly, but are so thankful that God allowed us to spend over 7 wonderful years with one of his most loving and unique little creatures.

Chuck and Janet Lakatos

My Itty was one of a kind, he was so laid back and easy going, he also loved to play fetch like a dog, he was always at the door the meet me for the past 15 years, he will be in my heart forever

Pat

You are so missed! I will always love my Little Itty Bitty!

Kathryn Morgan

miss you, love you. you are with us in spirit. we will meet again my furry white friend.

Geri and Rocco

We love you so much Ivan and still miss you every day and feel your presence in so many ways. We are so sorry you got sick and there was nothing we could do for you as you did so much for us. Losing you was so hard but we are very grateful the cancer chose to take you quickly and with the least amount of pain and suffering and await the day when we come to get you from the Rainbow Bridge.

Andi & Tom

Thank you Iver for 8 wonderful, love filled years.
You'll always be with us and we'll never ever forget you.

Dawn Archambault

Ode to Ivy, aka Ivy Godiva and Ives, my feisty sweet silly kitty angel: After many years of trying to teach you to stop attacking me and playing too rough with the claws I finally learned at the end, to just let the tiny little grey mouse win by falling down and pretending to cry. I realized it was not that big of a deal to just let you win. Once I did that, you stopped. And then you were gone. Sorry it took me 19 years to get it. See you in heaven. To be continued....

Lisa Murray

Ivy, my beloved kitty for sixteen years, who never wanted any more than a warm lap to sit on -- my lap is very empty now. You will be very much missed.

Lisa Sommers

Iwen, my beautiful boy, I miss you so much. Nobody can ever replace you. You were a cat in a lifetime. I'm so glad that we had 14 years together, and that your life with me was happy. I love you always. See you in due time, Anna-Lena (mommy).

Anna-Lena Berg

I miss you and I am sorry

Angelina