* * * * *

Ch. Caroling's Southern Cousin

August 13, 2001 - March 15, 2008

bred, owned & loved by Carol & Ken Lingley

Our sweetest boy, Alabama, left us suddenly last Saturday after a brief illness.  There is a large black hole in our pack and hearts.  He had a good day on Friday, finally eating, albeit hand fed treats, playing with  his new Wubba, retrieving his toss toy for his dad (his favorite game), and standing on his tippy-toes to flirt with his girlfriend du jour.  

Bama finished his Championship with all points from the Bred By Exhibitor class.  He sired one litter of pups now 13 mos. old.  We hope through them to have many glimpses of our beloved boy.

He has put on invisibility.

Dear Lord, I cannot see--

but this I know, although the road ascends

and passes from my sight,

that there will be no night; 

that You will take him gently by the hand

and lead him on along the road of life that never ends,

and he will find it is not death but dawn.  

I do not doubt that You are there as here, 

and You will hold him dear.

(from The Traveler, by James Dillet Freeman)

* * * * *

Santera’s Bibiana v Beowulf

February 3, 1996 ~ September 10, 2007

After eleven wonderful years, Bibbi left us today.  She was born at John and Gloria Woodson’s and came to our house as the sweetest, frizzy puppy imaginable.  Very quickly (very), she grew to be a big, gorgeous girl.

Bibbi’s gift was companionship.  She really knew how to be with you.  For the past six years, she shared my studio with me.  While she loved all the knitting, sewing, felting, painting, public radio and classical music – her favorite thing was when I would break out the snacks.  That girl knew her snacks…  White wine? Not so much.  Cheese and crackers?  Now you had her full attention. 

Letting go is never easy, even when you know the time is right.  Bibbi was greatly loved and it’s hard to express just how much she will be missed.

Dick and Carmelita White

* * * * *

October's Smokestack Lightnin', CD, NDD, RAE2

May 21, 1998 - August 31, 2007

Owned and loved by Valerie Chase and Bill Johnson

We took Lightning to the Bridge today and sent her on across to wait. I have loved all of our dogs, but Lightning was the one I have done the most things with. She was 9 yrs, 3 months and 10 days old. While she was the queen of winners reserve, she earned a CD and NDD and was the first RAE Berner and the only RAE 2 Berner. She has had 20 kids and has 4 grandkids. We traveled to 3 National Specialties together as well as lots of shows. She earned her 26th RAE leg in Kentucky in May, one week shy of her 9th birthday, but it was clear she was slowing down. She was diagonosed with lymphosarcoma in early June, but has never stopped wagging her tail and looking for a pet while things got slowly worse. Her DNA and blood was collected for the MSU repository at the National this year and frozen and preserved tissues will be sent. She never met a human she didn't like or that she couldn't get to pet her. We will miss her horribly.

* * * * *

Bedro's Cinnamon Daisy OA, NAJ, OAP, NJP

June 12, 1999 - May 28, 2007

My Daisy fought a tough battle but again got aspiration pneumonia this past Thursday.  The vet gave her a strong prescription of antibiotics in hopes that she would make it through the weekend -- my daughter's wedding was on Saturday.  And Daisy did make it to the wedding but this morning, with a very high fever and a tired body, we helped her to the Bridge where the Budman was waiting for his favorite girl.  With her soft coat shining, she lay peacefully, so utterly beautiful.

I have so many wonderful memories of her that even now I smile.  To all of you who loved her through her stories, thank you.  She was my soul mate, the other half of my smile -- the ink in my pen.

Always in the hearts of

Maria & Jack Crifasi

* * * * *

On April 1st 2007, Ch De-Li's Cast a Magic Spell crossed the bridge
to join Jacquie.  Magic was just like his name, he was pure Magic.  He was
the first dog I bred to go to a National and win his class.  He came to
live with me when Lilian moved, and stayed until he was finished by me.
He was bred for the first time in 2004 and gave me "My Genie" who
brought with her all of Daddy's love.  He lived with Lilian but never
forgot me, for when I came to visit he  already knew I was there -- he
was the dog jumping up and down looking for me.  He like so many died of Histio and it came too fast and too soon.  Magic was only 5 years young and still had so much love to give.  He will be missed by both Lilian and me, but we both know he will be loved on the other side.

* * * * *

Hayfield’s Grand Juniper
March 24, 2000 – March 5, 2007

Today I lost my best friend.  Juniper was my first
Berner, my first show dog (owner handled to 14 points,
both majors), my first CGC dog and my first therapy
dog but above all he was my best friend and the one thing I loved more than anything in this world.

It is believed that Malignant Histiocytosis took him from me.  His preliminary diagnosis was found on Friday, 3/2.   His lungs and chest filled very quickly with fluid.  He was put on Lasix and had fluid drained
twice but by this morning he was fading fast and I couldn’t bear to see him struggle to breathe anymore. He was helped to the bridge at 9:30 am.  Samples of the tumor and blood will be sent to Dr. Breen @ NCSU
so that someday this will not happen to someone else’s best friend.

Farewell my sweet big head boy.

Robin Kelly
Berryville, VA


There You’ll Be:
When I think back on these times and the dreams we
left behind 
I’ll be glad 'cause I was blessed to get to have you
in my life
When I look back on these days I’ll look and see your
face you were right there for me.

In my dreams I’ll always see your soul above the sky
In my heart there always be a place for you for all my
life
I’ll keep a part of you with me and everywhere
I am there you’ll be
Well you showed me how it feels to feel the sky within
my reach and I always will remember all the strength
you gave to me
Your love made me make it through, I owe so much to
you
You were right there for me

'Cause I always saw in you my light, my strength
And I want to thank you now for all the ways
You were right there for me; for always

And everywhere I am; there you’ll be

* * * * *

Moonkatch Sam Eduardoa Bipaco

May 12, 1995 - June 6, 2006

owned, loved & missed by Ana Colon

"Sam, Samuel, Sammy, Samito," my sweet boy.  Sammy taught me about the simplicity of life and to laugh everyday.  He came to me as a puppy in 1995 and we had 11 wonderful years together.  I thank God for all that we shared, and for his precious eyes that reflected the sweetness of his soul.  He lives in my heart forever.  Thank you, baba boy.

* * * * *

CH. Wyemede's Checkered Flag (Checker)

December 25, 2000 - July 14. 2006

Checker passed away on Friday evening July 14, at 9:30 PM.  He was with me and my family, who loved him dearly.  He went peacefully, and died the same way he came into this world, as a gentleman  He made my job easier even at the end--I did not have to make the choice.  He was such a joy and died way too young.  Up to a few days before he died, Checker would hear me get home from work and come to the door and bark.  His bark will be greatly missed--he sounded like a seal--and how he could bark and hold his toys in his month at the same time was amazing.  He would grab whatever he could, pillows, blanket, toys, and with his tail going, he would wait to be kissed on his head.   I tell you this was the hardest thing to go through and he will be greatly missed by all.  He tried hard to teach manners to the other dogs, but none will be the gentleman he was.  I want to thank Julia and Elizabeth Crawford for trusting me with this great gentleman.  One day we will all be together again.   I love you Checker.

Brenda Bernard

* * * * *

* * * * *

Words cannot express our sadness and how much we miss our 'Fron-Meister.'  She was our middle-child; she never got the praise of a first-born, but Ooh how she could earn titles with her mom.  She was shy; yet she loved her mom unconditionally.  She was the BMDCA's youngest Brace Draft Dog (BNDD and BDD), and a good Tracking Dog.  She was a working dog with a capital 'W', she was our companion with a capital 'C'.  She was our baby with a capital 'B.'  Tho our world seems empty now, we have been blessed with 4 1/2 wonderful years of Fronny's love and companionship.  For that we will be forever grateful.  God Bless you Fronny.  We will take good care of your niece, Tavy, and we will look forward to a couple of big 'berner-hugs' from you and Molly B. at the Bridge.

* * * * *

We are all so devestated by the loss of our beloved Thunder, at 7 years 4 months on Monday, April 11th.  He died in my lap.  The vets don't know what happened, he had been sick over six weeks but had been steadily improving, he didn't have histio, lymphoma or other cancers and his blood was normal in all aspects, even the tick studies were negative.  

His big beautiful face and wonderful personality and cuddly nature are deeply missed by Saul, Elaine, Robin, Matt, Leo and Storm and Lightning who keep looking through the house for their dad.  He was just a wonderful boy , 

* * * * *

R.I.P. Debby vom Worblental (Molly B.) CDX, CGC, TDI, JHD-s, DD, BDD, BMDCA 'Working Dog' 11 Jul 2000 - 24 Feb 2006 -- faithful Companion of Buck and Priscilla. 

Words cannot express our sadness and how much we miss our 'Moo'.  She taught us with love.  She was a working dog with a capital 'W', she was our companion with a capital 'C'. Tho our world seems empty now, we have
been blessed with 5 1/2 wonderful years of Molly B's love and companionship.  We also enjoy continuing love and companionship of Molly B's half-sister, 'Fronny' and niece, 'Tavy'.  For that we will be forever grateful.  God Bless you Molly B, we will meet you at the Bridge.

* * * * *

Caroling's Octave Above (Stretch)

April 20, 1997 - December 16, 2005

sorely missed by Carol & Ken Lingley

* * * * *

* * * * *

loved and missed by Carol & Ken Lingley

Our sweet Rhoda, who fought the good fight but lost to adeno carcinoma, was the image of her mother, our first Berner Lille .  Rhoda had a good time wherever she went.  She had a brief show career and held her own, but her favorite sport was hanging around her yard and catching treats over the fence.  She was a great mom to her one small litter, the only girl we've had that carried her babies around in her mouth.  

Thank you, Ro, for your devotion and life's lessons.

* * * * *

Caroling's Road Warrior, January 11, 1999 - July 18, 2005

dearly loved and forever missed by Carol & Ken Lingley

He fought his first fight on his way to us
He lost his right ear in a prenatal fuss
His suckle was weak because his mouth was not perfect
But he held tight his bottle ‘til his belly was surfeit.

He grew full size, handsome and strong
If you looked from his left you saw nothing wrong
Markings all great, back broad and sturdy
A coat long and lush, big feet, usually dirty.

The lessons he taught will stay here forever
He was brave beyond measure and very clever
His nose always running from the congenital slip
He learned to cope with the sneezing and drip

He drank like a turkey, sip, tip up the nose
And he especially enjoyed a drink from the hose.
He ran like the wind and loved to race
But lounging with sisters was his preferred pace

Six years and half was too short a span
But that’s all we got with our beloved Van.
He’s laying out back now with his mom at his feet
Rest well, our sweet boy, until again we shall meet.

* * * * *

Ch. Santera Nadia's Sonata

April 17, 1994 - July 8, 2005

loved & missed by Carol & Ken Lingley

 She did everything asked of her, and more.  Without complaint she endured the indignities of old age that ruled her last months.  A show dog that stood on her tiptoes in anticipation of going in the ring.  A champion tailwagger who made helicopter tails while lying on a table being tattooed.  A brood bitch that never met a boy she didn't love.  A  free-whelper of three litters of pups who replicated her endearing, exuberant  personality, and a courageous mom who once steadfastly nursed her babies while suffering from a nasty episode of mastitis.   

   She has left us a wonderful legacy in her children and grandchildren, but we doubt we'll ever know another quite like our Noddy.  Our thanks to her co-owner Sandy Novocin for letting her come live with us in 1996 and to Norb Novocin whom she adored.

* * * * *

Ch. Dallybeck's Obvious Choice, July 13, 1994 - July 8, 2005

 owned, loved and missed by Michael O'Hara

How sad that Michael has had to say farewell to two of his beloved boys in five short weeks: Willie back in May, and now Ty who was just five days short of his 11th birthday.  "Sometimes I have to pause and remember all the joy and love that God has granted me during the past 24 years.  The passing of each of my wonderful dogs has been such a loss that only the great love I have known and the great joy that each of my Berners has given me allows me to know that I am the lucky one."  

Our deepest sympathy, Michael.  

* * * * *

Santera Rangero v. Crest 

February 3, 1996 - July 4, 2005

owned, loved and missed by 

Kate Perry & Tom Sundstrom

Kate writes: "On Monday, Tom and I held and comforted our dearly loved Ranger as he passed from this world.  He was 9 1/2, and, although many say that is a good long life for a Berner, it seems far too short to me.  Ranger came to us after spending his first two years with Sandy and Norb Novocin at Santera Kennel.  He was, at first, glad to have Bear (our beloved Golden Retriever) as his new friend, but wasn't at all sure about the new humans.  After a few weeks, he decided that we were OK and a more loving or fiercely loyal boy would not be found.  Over time, our very shy boy, who would bark once then run outside when a visitor arrived, became eager to greet and was first in line for a pet and a scratch.

   Ranger filled our home with his magnificent presence, amused us with his playfulness and from time to time enjoyed a midnight snack unwittingly left too close to the edge of a counter.  He enjoyed Dog Fancy but his all time favorite snack was Tom's eyeglasses.

   When he ran, I was in awe of his grace and beauty.  When he stood tall, I was moved by his grand stature.  When he snuggled, I was warmed by his love and devotion.  When he passed, I was broken hearted.  He was my sweet-tempered gentle giant and loved by all who knew him.  We will forever love and miss him."

* * * * *

Michael posted the news, "It is with great sadness that I report the passing of my sweet boy.  We kissed each other farewell, and I held him close and then he crossed over the bridge, to romp and play with those who have gone before him.  My welcome home will no longer be so "bountiful" and "melodious" and my kiss goodnight will be foreever missed, but it was his time."

* * * * *

Ch Bonmead's Frieda V Ravenswald, April 12, 1992 - March 5, 2005

Ravenswald My Love V Bonmead, September 26, 1997 - May 1, 2005

owned, loved and missed by Kathryn & Darrell Yost

Kathryn writes, "I lost Frieda Mae on March 5, five weeks shy of 13 years.  She was my first champion, mother of two litters of beloved puppies, a challenge to live with, but a character we would not have wanted to live without.  Her appetite had been falling off and her senior moments had been increasing and finally her knees gave out.  She is now running wild and free across the fields of heaven.

"And I am still in denial about losing her daughter, Hazel, on May 1.  Hazel was only 7 1/2 years.  After Frieda passed, Hazel got sick and just a few weeks later we were considering chemo for lymphoma.  Hazel herself "said" no, and almost before I knew it, she was gone, out of pain and chasing squirrels in heaven.  She was very special to me; she enjoyed her therapy work when we lived in Georgia and the agility classes we took here.

"Take lots of photos of your dogs and don't put off something till you have more time/more money, etc., 'cuz your dog may not be here when that time finally comes."

* * * * *

* * * * *

Ch. Greenway's Genuine Draft, January 8, 2001 - April 22, 2005       owned and loved by Maria & Jack Crifasi

Today shortly after the noon hour we held Buddy as he passed to the Bridge.  Jack and I buried him facing east by the old stonewall under the trees.  Buddy was my gentle giant, my protector, my angel.  Did you know that his stop smelled like fabric softener, and that he had the biggest, warmest brown eyes?

He played hard and he worked hard -- hauling firewood in his cart through the woods, removing any and all sponges and paper towels from the counter, teaching Justin that Come! means Don't Listen, showing people that a big Berner can have fabulous floating movement....

CH Greenway's Genuine Draft CGC "The Budman" is now at the Bridge gleefully chasing all the females.  Trust me.

*****

Buddy's friend Janice Parky wrote the following tribute.

For those of you who never had the pleasure of meeting Buddy, he was an amazing Berner Boy.  Buddy got his Championship in 4 shows. Amazing. He ate socks.  Not so amazing. The amazing Buddy ate a sherpa mop which festered inside him for six weeks until it was surgically removed. That was Buddy.  Buddy was also a big, wonderful boy who moved like a dream, and had a temperament I would wish for all Berners.  The first time I met Buddy (and Maria and Daisy and Jack) was on a visit here to the Cape. Buddy and Daisy's first ocean experience. We took the dogs to the bay, a southwest wind was kicking up the waves. I said to Maria, "Lots of dogs are afraid of the waves". Buddy plunged in. Maria said, "I don't see fear here." Then he started to swim across the bay from Truro towards Provincetown. Maria is screaming, "Buddy COME!! Jack, Jack do something!!!" At which point Buddy turned around and headed, of his own free will, towards the shore. I have this on video, up to the part where Maria dropped the camera <G>. That was Buddy.  Goodnight sweet Prince, my Super Nova

*
I had the privilege of being in the conformation ring with Buddy beginning in November 2002 when Buddy swept the points in three straight major wins at the Turkey Cluster, earning twelve points in three days.  Bud continued his winning streak the following weekend by winning Best of Breed over Specials and a Group 4 placement, completing his Champion of Record title in just four shows!  Bud went on to many more breed wins and Group placements, but it wasn't surprising that this awesome boy was recognized by the judges.  His personality filled every inch of his amazing stature.  Although we had to have several woodshed talks  about ring etiquette (no these girls are not here to see you, and BUDDY, THAT 'S A MALE, and please don't knock the decorations down on the way out), when he was focused and on his game, he was simply magnificent.  Thank you, Budman, for some very special memories.  You will always be in my heart.     Carol Lingley

* * * * *

"The gift I am sending you is called a dog, and is in fact the most precious and valuable possession of mankind"  Theodorus Gaza

Fred Burr - January 15, 1998 - January 29, 2005

beloved companion of Pope Burr passed gently and peacefully from this world on Saturday afternoon atop Sugarloaf Mountain in the arms of the one who was most dear to him.  Pope writes that "Fred had a loving family and a devoted group of human friends and I will miss my boy for some time to come - thank you God for loaning me your dog." 

Fred's picture was taken Christmas 2002 at the west overview on Sugarloaf, just a few feet from where he passed. 

Sharon Hasenauer wrote the following for Fred.

Elegy for Fred, a Bernese Mountain Dog

When shall my heart break?

When shall it be?

How far that day when that snowy breast shall rise no more

And those bright brown eyes dim and close in final peace?

Will I help you to that rest or awake to find you've gone ahead

During the night's dark embrace?

When the last time I kiss your sweet head as my tears flow,

And hold you once more in my arms, can I let you go?

Every day together is a lifetime if we make it so,

A treasure for all the tomorrows after you go.

When shall my heart break?

When shall it be?

* * * * *

     Our Remi leaves another void in our home. It never gets easier. We lost her mother, Tempi, the year before and thought we had many more years with Remi but it was not to be.  Remi was the one who loved her toys and always had one in her mouth. What a gentle girl with both her toys and the pups she gave us.  Interestingly enough, most of her offspring love their toys as much as she did. Those offspring that we have here continue to carry them around all over the house.
     Remi, like her dam, proved to be a good mom and gave us some lovely sons and daughters. Some of her offspring include Ch. Santera Santos v Crest, Ch. Santera I'm A Believer Still, Ch. Santera Kobi v Crest, Ch. Santera's Millennium Vintage, and Santera Evening Masquerade (8pts. and dam of the history making litter of 18 pups born alive in one litter).
     We were very proud of her and miss her greatly.

* * * * *

Dallybeck's Not Misbehavin'
a.k.a. Silly Lilly, Miss Lillian, LilBil
June 13, 1994 - October 4, 2004

On Monday, October 4, 2004 we lost the jewel of our household, Lilly. Always sweet, a perfect companion, an outstanding mother (even if they weren't her own pups!) and playful til the end. 

Lilly awaits us at Heaven's Gate along with her four daughters Zoe, Wally, Petie and Bubbles. What a wonderful welcoming committee!

Love to you Miss Lilly.

Dick and Carmelita White

* * * * *

Beowulf's Goodnight Moon -- Tina 6/26/98 - 4/1/04

Owned and loved by Dick and Carmelita White

Monday, April 1, 2004 we lost Tina to complications from lymes disease. 

Tina's story is remarkable in that she was discovered to have a very large fibrosarcoma tumour that extended amost the full length of her left front leg when she was eighteen months old. It was sucessfully removed but the prognosis for her living much beyond the next year was considered very poor at best. True to her nature, very sweet and determined, Tina recovered and lived a happy life as our official 'pet' berner. Never bred, never shown -- just loved.

Goodnight sweet Tina, we'll see you at the Bridge.

* * * * *

Dallybeck’s Ramblin’ Monk, NDD, CGC

June 9, 1995 to March 31, 2004

Resting peacefully after a long haul.

We gave Monk a carting name – Ramblin’- because we knew that would be “our” sport.

Monk never knew the word “slow”. He always challenged his handler to keep up. Although Monk and I did manage to get one qualifying leg for Novice Obedience, Monk’s real calling was in pulling the cart. He loved drafting and was eager to do anything with me as long as he had the cart attached. That was his “work”. Monk understood how to line up for the obstacles – he was there ahead of me most of the time. He was never afraid to try something new, as long as I asked him to “come”.

Unfortunately Monk tore a Cruciate Ligament pulling a steep hill during an Open Draft Test. This ended his drafting campaign. Synovial Cell Sarcoma was discovered during his leg operation. After a chemo protocol was given, we were rewarded with 40 more months of Monk’s companionship before his hind legs just gave out.

Monk’s second job was to keep us all, dogs and humans, on The Schedule. He had a built-in clock and let us know when it was time to do something – feed, walk, sleep. Now we are just wandering without him.

Monk was also the official “greeter” at all our Bernerfests and Drafting Workshops. With a smile on his face, Monk went around to all the Berners to make sure they were having fun.

On March 31, 2004 Monk went off to join with Walli in pulling the carts across the Rainbow Bridge and to greet the Berners as they arrive.

Jerry Pixton

* * * * *

The hearts of the Korotki and Genendlis families are broken as their wonderful dog, Magic, died on Monday at 6:30 A.M. He had a major infection and was responding well to the antibiotics but then became tired and died with his family, both 2 and 4 legged around him. Thanks to all of you who cheered on this wonderful old dog at his last show, especially his appearances with his beloved handler, Matt Korotki. The Berner family has always been so supportive of this devoted duo, Thank You ! He was a Good Dog. We were blessed with this wonderful family dog who was everything a Berner should be. We will always miss him. 

Robin Korotki

* * * * *

For 7 1/2 years he never left my side.  He met more people than any other six dogs in six lifetimes combined, and left them all smiling.  He left me at 7pm on January 20, 2004, as I held his head close to me and cried a river, a victim of malignant histiocytosis. 

There are no words to express how I feel.  When you left it was with my heart and soul; God do I miss you, Gatsby. . .

John L. Moriarty, Arlington, VA

* * * * *

Ch. Beowulf's the Bewitching One

October 8, 1998 to January 24, 2004
Loved by Joyce E. Dickhoff and Family

Who could have imagined a short five years ago when Carmelita White agreed to have Hocus join my family how much one dog would change my life. As my first Berner, Hocus charmed me in ways I could not have known. From quietly sitting under the table while my then two year old granddaughter fed her Cheerios and milk from a spoon to her gentle nature with everyone she met. Hocus was pure magic. Then on to her winning ways in the show ring. I always felt that she finished in spite of me being at the other end of the leash. She was the first dog in my nearly thirty years at the shows that I could say I finished by 
myself. 

Hocus gave me the joy of 16 of the lovely puppies, three more who finished with me dragging along at the end of the leash. Four more who are well on their way. She has passed along her sweet nature and easy going charm to each of her pups. It was so easy to tell that they got this from their mom. 

Hocus had given me plenty to worry about as well. The scratch on her cornea that had me convinced she would never finish. The frequent wanderings of a runaway dog. She would give me a look and turn to run. Only to come wandering home a little while later tired but happy. How many times did my husband fix that fence? The accidental ingestion of a plant that caused concerns about her kidneys four years ago. I remember taking a four point major with a shaved belly. There was no stopping Hocus. 

Today, the family gathered around Hocus for the last time. The tears came freely. It will be hard to imagine life without this amazing dog. What comfort I have in sharing my life with her wonderful pups. 

As Hocus closed her eyes for that last time, she still told me of the love she shared for Jay and I. I know she is chasing angels through Heaven.  Hocus, we will miss you so.

Joyce Dickhoff

* * * * * 

Santera Lillehammer, CD    December 25, 1993 - August 14, 2003

Owned and loved by Ken and Carol Lingley

With magnificent angel wings reserved for only the best dogs, Lille took flight for the Bridge at 4PM, August 14.  She was true to the end, telling us it was time; walking to the spot in the back field she wanted as her own; happy to get in the car, even putting her front feet up in the hatch waiting for a lift to the crate, and when redirected to the side door and the awaiting blanket, climbing in unaided; eating an ice-cream sandwich before we backed out the driveway, and playing the ready-steady game for cookies while we waited for the vet to come to the car with the fuel for her flight. She barked to let us know strangers were approaching, but like the lady she was, she accepted their touch and kept her eyes on her mom with complete trust. 

When last seen she was cuddling her Mokey, with milkbones and chewy close by. 

Good flight, our special girl.  You are simply the best.

(Lille was euthanized due to an apparent matastized adeno-carcinoma which was first diagnosed in December 2001.)

* * * * * 

Kadoo's Mountain Thumper, June 20, 1995 - July 31, 2003

Owned and loved by Pat and Dave Burgan

It is with great sadness that we learned of the death of Pat and Dave Burgan's beloved Thumper.  He went quickly in his sleep after being diagnosed with a brain tumor.  He apparently suffered very little but we will all feel the loss of this sweet, gentle giant who graced so many of our events and will be especially remembered as he pranced so lively around the ring as a veteran during our last Specialty.  Thumper was eight on June 20.

* * * * *

Carmelita writes:
"On Friday, March 28th we had to say good-bye to one of the worlds sweetest dogs, Petie, Beowulf's Bears Repeating. Petie joins her sister Walli up at Heaven's door -- Petie will be opening the door (her specialty) and Walli will be guarding it. Needless to say, life is a little less sweet with her loss, but all the sweeter for the time we had with her. Petie died from complications caused by a tumor."

* * * * *

Santera Changing Tempo, April 20, 1992 - February 27, 2003                     Owned and loved by Sandy & Norb Novocin

Sandy writes, "On February 27, 2003, we lost one of our quiet girls whose main goal in life was to be with us.  She was a beautiful moving bitch who gave us two of our favorite bitches, Santera Ria Remembrance (Remi) and Ch.Santera Lucka v Crest.  Our wish was her desire to please.  She died about 6 weeks before her 11th birthday....just about the same age as her dam, Ch.Santera Harmony v Crest.  We shall miss our quiet lady."   

* * * * *

* * * * *

 Beowulf's Bears Watching, NDD, CGC (Walli)
July 8, 1996 - January 22, 2003, owned and loved by Nan & Jerry Pixton

Nancy Pixton writes:

"Walli was named for Wallace Simpson by her breeder, Carmelita White. It was a name which suited her for she took charge of the entire household and got her own way in activities. She named herself protector of all who resided here and in the surrounding area. It was in the capacity of protector that she died as she raced to the gate, barking all the way, in order to protect us all from the Air Borne Express truck. Walli died at the gate from an Aneurysm.

"Walli was very special in more ways than we can count. We all miss her so very much each and every day and were far from ready to have her leave us."

* * * * *

Sandy Novocin writes:  "On October 11, 2002, we lost one special lady...Santera Ariel Starfire. She was better known to her friends as Ariel . Ariel was our official house greeter and never met a person she didn't like. She lived well up until a few days before she died. She died just four days shy of her 12th birthday. She leaves us with many memories but also many empty places in our home and our hearts. We shall greatly miss her."
 

* * * * *

Gretchen von Alderhorst (aka "Beta")    b. Jan 24, 1991 d. Oct 24, 2002.  Loved by Jim and Peggy Barrett

Beta, the leader of the Barrett pack for nearly 12 years was euthanized after a three week battle.

Loyalty, thy name is Beta.  

* * * * *

Loved by Dick and Carmelita White.  

Carmelita writes:
"This morning, September 25, 2002, our sweet girl joined her mother, Maggie, and brother, Angus in that special place that God reserves for dogs. Asta endured a prolonged battle with mast cell cancer . . . it never dimmed her happy spirit or sweet disposition.  Asta was, quite simply, the best."

* * * * *

 Katley's Land Cruiser - May 29, 1994 - April 10, 2002, loved by Valerie Chase and Bill Johnson.  The following was gleaned from a note written by Val to Carol Lingley in September, 1998.

"Cruiser is not a mental giant.  He works because he loves me and I ask him to.  He could get a CD but a CDX would be impossible -- he does NOT retrieve.  He goes for long walks in the hills and woods near us off lead and under voice control without a problem.  Draft work was a total natural -- I hitched him up and he took off the first time out.  He is very steady.  He does not panic about much of anything.  He has shown a great deal of interest in "working" our sheep and nicely herded one into a corner when I accidentally let the dogs in with the sheep.  The sheep were NOT amused.  Like his dad, he does guard our place.  He likes to get to know people before sucking up.  He is velcroed to people he loves and reserved with strangers.  Mostly, he is his momma's huggable dog."

* * * * *

Katley's Hellzapoppin - June 23, 1992 - February 2, 2002, companion to Valerie Chase and Bill Johnson.  Val's tribute to "Rascal" follows:

Rascal was the puppy from Hell.  Even her breeder, Kathy Worley, now admits she was afraid we were going to leave her on her porch one day.  She was the daughter of Rowdy (Kathy's girl) and Grey (Dawn Cox's Am. Can. Ch De-Li's Touch of Grey) but her personality was inherited from her mother.  She was born with the conviction that she should rule and that everyone was her subject.  She was an accomplished counter grazer whose best score was half a cheesecake one Christmas.  She chewed on us, was a natural Schutzendog (with a class III title in her mom's pedigree), and ate her way through an interesting array of items including hardbound library books, TV remotes, shoes, arm rests in the van and many dozen pairs of underwear.  

Dog class started early for Rascal and by the time she was three, the puppy from Hell was obedient in the hands of a novice five-year old.  She loved kids and was the dog I loaned to prospective Berner owners at dog matches and dog walks.  When I'd check on her I'd see her sitting on a picnic blanket, sharing lunch with a family, with a big grin on her face and a kid's arm around her shoulders.

Sometime around four years of age, Rascal started growling.  At first we were afraid she was getting weird, then we realized it was her way of talking, and  we reinforced it.  "What does the Fat Dog say?" got a nice conversational response along with a tip of a tail wag so you knew she was "talking."  She also learned to sneer in greeting.  Her best traits came out when she had a litter puppies.  Rascal was a wonderful mother and raised lovely kids.  We were amazed when in her later years she developed a sense of humor--something the Psychodog NEVER had.  She would plop down on your lap, get a good pet and look over her shoulder with a big grin that said "aren't we having fun."  She was extremely tolerant of the costumes she got for the annual Halloween party with the Playboy bunny and the politically incorrect Rasta Dog being the best.  

Right up until the end, if you talked to her the tail wagged.  We had Kathy over for dinner two nights before Rascal died.  Rascal joined us in the dining room, along with her friends Cruiser, Lightning, Maggie and Sadie.  Life with Rascal was sometimes difficult, but it was NEVER boring.  She was a great old lady and we miss her greatly.

* * * * *

Cody defied all odds and expectations by surviving auto-immune disease and the resulting sinus infections for over five years.  He was a champion of the conformation ring, an obedience titleholder, and a certified Novice Draft Dog, but most of all, Cody was the center of Deb Carmen's canine universe.  Until the end he enjoyed going on camping trips and accompanied Deb twice a day to the farm.  

* * * * *

In Loving Memory of John William Abrell - 1936 - 2001

Surely Jack wouldn't mind being in the company of all the beloved dogs memorialized on this page.  Jack was so instrumental in creating and perpetuating PVBMDC, it is fitting that we remember all his good works on our behalf.  We hope he has had a joyous reunion with the dogs who were waiting for him at the Bridge.  

"When I come to the end of the road and the sun has set for me, I want no rites in a gloom-filled room, why cry for a soul set free?  Miss me a little, but not too long and not with your head bowed low.  Remember the love that we once shared.  Miss me and let me go; for this is a journey that we all must take and each must go alone!  It's all a part of the Master's plan, a step on the road to home.  When you are lonely and sick of heart, go to the friends we know.  And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds; Miss me but let me go!"

* * * * *

Written by Martha Brewer, Volunteer Chairman, Animal Assisted Therapy Services, Winchester Medical Center - Winchester, VA                                                                           Posted August 11, 2001

* * * * *

* * * * *

* * * * *

* * * * *

* * * * *

(Kato was born May 1, 1994 and died of cancer on April 25, 2001.  Our sympathies to Kathy.) Posted May 6, 2001.

* * * * *

I told him when I lost my first Berner at 10 1/2 yrs., that he would have to live to be at least 11. He was 11 back in mid November.

A week or so ago, he was growing very weak and pale and losing his appetite. Blood work and x-rays showed problems with his spleen & liver. I asked him if he could stay with us for Christmas and I got him some drugs to make him feel better. And I promised him if he stayed, I'd help him to make sure he didn't ever feel sick or in pain again. He gave me the greatest Christmas present ever, to be with us on Christ's birthday.

And today I upheld my promise to him....and now he is young & healthy & active & reunited with my other Berners in heaven.

Kielerstar Kohl Black Raven, CD, CGC, TDI
Raven, aka Bubba or Wubby
11/11/89 - 12/26/00

Thank you so much, my sweet dear soul, for being my special boy and giving me this one last gift. You were so gentle and undemanding and you gave us so much.

Kathryn Yost
Ravenswald Bernese
Yorktown, Virginia
KYRaven@worldnet.att.net

Posted February 5, 2001.

* * * * *

* * * * *

* * * * *

* * * * *

* * * * *

* * * * *