I knew it was coming our final good-bye,
Yet you and I still believed you were to invincible to die.

Life without you is hard to comprehend,
But I couldn't let you suffer not my dearest friend.

How did I love you, in so many ways?
Our lives were entwined for thousands of days.

Only yesterday you were that promising pup,
Who sat in the yard and always looked up.

I knew your secret desire was always the same,
To fly like a bird, thus I gave you your name.

Hard to live with at times, I'll freely admit,
But you finally got ME trained with your demanding wit.

Twelve plus years together, going through time,
Me raising you and your kids and you raising mine.

You soared through the show ring answering destinies call,
But the puppies you gave me were the best gifts of all.

Champions you gave me, they numbered four
And the others, your legacy mean oh so much more.

Your daughter and grandbabes are with me as I pen this poem
And I know, dear heart, you've not left me alone.

God granted your wish and your angel form took to the sky,
Leaving me here with tears only boxer kisses will dry.

So once again I will look for that promising pup,
The one who sits in the yard and always looks up.

I'll know her when I see her; she'll have your twinkle in her eyes
And she and I will remember you as we look to the skies.

Ann Gilbert
Sarkel Boxers