You can give way to the grief — or you can give thanks that you loved enough to grieve. — Ann Voskamp
Words fall short when trying to describe the hole left by Jack. For thirteen years he was more than a pet — he was family, a constant source of laughter, comfort, and companionship. I know many of you loved him too, and I’m so sorry for this shared sorrow.
Jack touched the lives of so many, whether you knew him in person or followed his antics here on the blog and social media. His presence brightened ordinary moments and turned small routines into memories we’ll carry forever.
My sister always said Jack put his whole self into his bark, and that sums up how he moved through every day: completely present, fully engaged, and eager to join whatever was happening. He lived life with an open heart and a playful spirit.
Whether he was stealing ornaments off the tree, grabbing napkins off a lap, or removing starfish from a garland, Jack kept us laughing and on our toes. His mischief was never mean-spirited — it was his way of engaging and making people smile. He was equally content to curl up beside you and rest his head on your lap.
Jack created connections in quiet, everyday ways. He loved watching TV with the family, always squeezing himself between us on the couch, and he took particular delight in dog shows. Each morning he greeted us faithfully — even from sleep he would lift a paw to shake my hand when I passed.
He never wanted to be apart from the people he loved. Jack rode in the car with us, comforted Lily during drives, and joined family walks in the forest and on the beach. Wherever we went, he wanted to be part of the journey.
Jack stood with us through losses and hard times and helped create joy in the happiest moments. He welcomed every new family member over the years — spouses, babies, and puppies — with the same warm affection.
Even in his final hours, when he no longer had strength to stand or bark, he recognized his family. When our kids and grandson entered the room, his eyes brightened, he lifted his head, and he wagged his tail to greet them.
Our children brought him immense joy, and he returned that love in full. They cared for him tenderly to the end, making sure he always felt known and cherished.
We are profoundly grateful that Jack was part of our family. I wish with all my heart he could have stayed longer. We miss him more than words can express and have shed many tears, but we are also thankful for every season we shared and the ways he changed our lives.
Over thirteen years Jack taught us how to live fully: to savor small moments, to give and receive love without reservation, and to prioritize being together through laughter and sorrow. He reminded us that presence matters — simply being by one another’s side during the highs and lows is what builds a meaningful life.
We are heartbroken, and that pain reflects the depth of the love Jack gave and received. For that love, we are profoundly thankful.
Thank you for loving Jack and for holding Lily in your thoughts as well.
