A Tribute to Reiker aka “himself”
alias “Mr. Reiker”
This tribute is being written by Mr. Reiker’s caregiver, trainer, and breeder. I had the priviledge of caring for this great dog for over 4 years after his owner, Corinne Kennedy, went into her Nursing home. Reiker passed away on April 21, 2008. There is a hole in my heart and only my love for him will fill it. He was 12 yrs. Old and just as majestic as he always was throughout his years as one of the best companion dogs I have ever known. Reiker’s sire and dam were my own dogs and dogs that I bred. He was one of the most loving dogs I have ever known. He was sensitive and would never bite anyone (not that Corinne ever told people that because as they walked, as was Corinne’s habit every day, people would admire him including little children.) Reiker was the hit of their neighborhood for sure. I remember many times that Corinne would call me to brag about this great dog. She would explain that he had been the light of some little child’s day. He cared deeply for his mistress and showed great affection for her. When he came to me, at first, he seemed to know that something had happened to his dear mistress (Corinne was then in a Nursing home) but as the time went on, Reiker was comfortable and even very joyful at our place. He played every day with his sister, Whicker. In fact, it was common for his sister to have to tell him to stop dominating her and get is paws or his mouth off her. This made us laugh and Whicker would look proud that she had established her boundaries.
Just like his grandpa, Hobo, Reiker never heard an unkind word because his temperament was about pleasing! And I mean pleasing! If I asked him to do something, Reiker had it down before the end of my request!
I will miss him so much but I know that “Himself” is now with his dear mistress Corinne Kennedy who passed on just months before Reiker. Both Jan Kennedy, Corinne’s loving daughter, and I wonder if Reiker somehow knew that his mistress was in heaven waiting for him.
I am grateful for the times that were so happy here
With Reiker and believe that dog and mistress are now together in heaven.
It was so difficult to say goodbye to my dear friend but I know he’s waiting for me too.
In sadness but in peace
Carlene Wheeler & Jan C Kennedy
Meadow Ridge Kennels
