LifeStory

Dino

A Home Funeral for Our Dog Proved to Be Transformational

By Rich Matkins and Paul Sposato

During the last 48 hours, our beloved dog Kohala Duke Dino has been resting in a place of honor in our beautiful garden guest room. This is my very first home funeral and Paul and I have created his altar, demonstrating our gratitude and love.
 

Thirty of Dino's dear friends have stopped by to say goodbye, since his death on Monday. They came bringing food, chocolate, flowers, wine, and cool special love objects for Dino. Most importantly, they brought all of us, open-hearted love. We are so grateful.

Dino, you have been such blessing to everyone! Thank you for your endless love.

We have a secret, you and I,
That no one else shall know,
For who, but I can see you lie,
Each night, in fireglow?
And who but I can reach my hand
Before we go to bed,
And feel the living warmth of you
And touch your silken head?
And only I walk woodland paths,
And see, ahead of me,
Your small form racing with the wind,
So young again, and free.
And only I can see you swim
In every brook I pass.

And, when I call, no one but I
Can see the bending grass.


Dino
Pet Memorial
  • Type of animal

    Dog

  • family

    Rich Matkins
    Paul Sposato

  • residence

    Portland, Oregon

  • born

    2003

  • died

    2016

Rich Matkins
I will post more pictures once Paul and I regroup a bit. This has been one of the most powerful experiences of my life. Dino taught us so much!❤️🐾🐾❤️
esther carelli-perri
awwww what a handsome fellow !!!!!!! you can see he was very much loved !!!
Amy Cunningham
Oh my gosh, you guys, I can see you were devoted to this dear and lovely companion. I know Dino's memory will always be a blessing to you. Hang in there. Warmly and with much love, Amy
Dino
Pet Memorial
  • Type of animal

    Dog

  • family

    Rich Matkins
    Paul Sposato

  • residence

    Portland, Oregon

  • born

    2003

  • died

    2016