Ernie

May 29th, 2015 - April 7th, 2022

If you are lucky enough in your lifetime, you will have the privilege to experience a force so remarkable, that every moment becomes extraordinary and changes the course of events forever.

You were that force.

You did your job to the fullest, giving so much love, steadfast and unconditional. You were the happiest just to be near us, preferably as close as possible, waiting for confirmation that you were indeed, a very good boy.

From the moment we brought you home, you became the dog that legends are made of. You quickly developed a knack of stealing; anything was fair game, though your target was gloves.

Christmas time brought you exceptional joy, as you gracefully accepted delivered packages on our behalf and stored them in a secure area with the rest of your hidden treasures.

Perhaps your greatest caper was the successful heist of a 50 lb Easter ham off of the neighbour's BBQ, devouring it along the way as you dragged it down their driveway.

From the beginning, you quickly climbed ranks as a celebrity in the neighbourhood. Between stealing lunches from construction crews, inviting yourself into strangers homes to make new friends, and riding the school bus, you were always the hit of the party.

You were a sensitive boy; you didn't like it when ladybugs landed on you and heaven forbid someone sneeze in your presence. But with that was your loving and nurturing character, whether that was caring for every new baby that arrived on the farm, or offering your knowing eyes and gentle soul to make a bad day better.

You've left us unprepared with your absence; we would have never anticipated having to say goodbye to you so soon. Your spot on the couch still lingers with the shape of your presence; your foot tracks still visible on the floor.

There is an immense emptiness in our hearts and our home.

I love you with all my heart, and though the pain I feel without you is profound, it in no way would ever compare to the joy you have brought us in our time together. We miss you terribly, and we will cherish you always.

My heart goes with you; your love stays with me.

Lisa