Memorials
Each story shared here is a poignant reminder of the profound bond we shared with our canine companions. We invite you to join us in celebrating the lives of these extraordinary dogs and the profound impact they had on our lives.
Kathy Quirk
Dear one and all: My name is Jesse and I am one of the RMLR labs that found a new home. I am so sorry to report that a few days ago my mom, Kathy Quirk, went to her forever home and I miss her so much. Kathy was a true dog lover and spent much of her time caring for, loving and protecting us. My two sisters, Kelsey and Shannon were with her for thirteen years before chasing the Great Tennis Ball in the Sky. After that Kathy reported for duty as a RMLR volunteer Foster Home. That is where I met her. Kathy lived in town, but we got to go to the condo in the mountains, often with Kathy’s sister, Eileen. It was great fun to be with them because they were so full of love and affection. I think they were like that a lot. I’m living with Eileen now and that’s so cool because we get to share our memories of Kathy. I guess the best thing is that Kathy, and her mom, are now together. I know Kathy often wanted to talk to her mom, and now I guess they’ll be able to. We’ll all miss her very much. I mean really a lot. But my guess is that she’s out there somewhere with Shannon and Kelsey, throwing an old tennis ball and smiling. She was like that. Bye, Mom. Love, Jesse
Kiera
We had to let our sweet Kiera pass away Monday evening. Realizing that it was the best way we could show our love for her was not difficult; living without her warmth, loyalty and companionship breaks our hearts. We'll miss her big, brown-eyed gaze, her enthusiastic trot on our walks, her intensity as she tried to find that elusive chipmunk in the garden, her gentle snore at night, and yes, even her smelly farts. She lived large, she lived in joy, and she died with dignity and at peace. My nightly ritual with her, and what I said to her before she went to sleep this last time: "Good night, baby girl. I'll see you in the morning. I love you Kiera; you're a good girl. Sleep tight.”
Kinah
Kinah was adopted March 25. 2010. She crossed the Rainbow Bridge March 17, 2024. She was our heart dog. We had 14 beautiful years of hiking, camping, snowshoeing . She loved all kids, especially grandkids and was a special part of our lives. Love and miss you Kinah. You are the best of the best. Thank you SO much RMLR for letting us adopt the best dog ever. Hank & Lindy
King
"King" came to us in 2011 from Rocky Mountain Lab Rescue. As if a message from above, we got the call he was available to adopt the day before November 5th, which was my birthday. We didn't like the name which he answered to, so it morphed into Koln, which like Sydney, was a place where went to play hockey (Cologne Germany). He wasn't always the best behaved or most cuddly dog, but he was everything dog owners could ask. He was playful, happy, energetic and friendly. We figure he demanded of us over 13,000 walks so he did his part getting us up off our butts. Aside from eating (by only a slight margin) his favorite thing was fetch. Almost every day he got to show us how quick he could retrieve a ball. I figure that was 200,000 tosses over his life, and it included parks all across the country including Love's gas stations in Georgia and little pocket parks under the "El" tracks in Chicago. He got us through some tough and challenging times too, basically by telling us life is good, now get up and let's go walk for a drink at Denver Beer Company. We had Mr. Kolner for over 12 1/2 years, but his hind legs just couldn't keep him up anymore and we didn't want him to suffer. "I loved you every day of your life. I will miss you every day for the rest of mine" Dave & Marc
Kona, formerly Pancha
We rescued through you at the beginning of January 2012. Kona was the absolutely best dog we’ve ever had, and we had almost eight terrific years with her. Unfortunately, she was diagnosed with a moderately bad type of lymphoma just before Memorial Day this year. We did do one full course of chemo, but did not continue because she had bad side effects with all of the medications. The lymphoma was in remission throughout the summer, but it came back with a vengeance in the last few weeks. She crossed the Rainbow Bridge this afternoon. Thank you so much for all that you do, and for pairing us with the perfect dog! Chris and Nancy Furnish
Konda
Konda’s life started out a little “rocky” which many rescue dogs experience. But his life with me was filled with numerous soft beds, daily trips & walks in the park, special “touchdown” treats, home cooked gourmet meals, lots of ice water (he preferred it with ice cubes or so he told me) was a constant companion with unfailing love. I really miss him.
Kramer AKA Charlie
I’m sad to inform you that our sweet Charlie will be crossing the rainbow bridge today. He was diagnosed with lung cancer last year, and he is telling us now that it is time to let him go. We’ve loved him since the day we met him and our hearts are broken to have to say goodbye to this sweet little boy. I wanted to thank you so much for the opportunity to take care of him and love him for the 9 years we’ve had him.
Lady
12 years ago I adopted Lady from RMLR. Unfortunately due to extreme arthritis, liver disease and senility it's time for end of life. I would like to thank RMLR for providing me with many years of companionship. I think she was the only black lab in the world that did not like the water. I always said she was a hound dog in a black labs coat. - Todd