Our beloved golden retriever, Duke, was a warm and active part of our lives in a time when we needed a family friend who would love us unconditionally.  In 1997 we lost our father and the three dogs, Duke, Bull and Spruce were there to comfort us and lend a playful spirit in a time when family and friends just couldn’t take us “away” from the tragedy of losing the patriarch to our family.

Having a dog is truly a “best friend” because they seem to know what your emotional state is and have that uncanny way of balancing you out by showing you that everything will be ok.

Duke was the most energetic and athletic of the three dogs we owned as a family. He would never stop playing, whether in the water or on shore, he would get us and the other dogs tired out and just keep on going!

Duke would jump the highest, run the fastest and play the longest. He was a gentle dog who was like our “point guard” to the three boys and three dogs in the family. Always first in the water and last out, Duke was a great hunter and could help gather up the ducks even on the coldest Maryland mornings.

Duke passed away after battling hip dysplasia, as this beautiful breed often does. He stayed active until the last days and was at peace with himself and our family when he went to heaven to be with his brother and mother and our family as well. Missed but not forgotten, thank you for being part of our lives sweet Duke!