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In Memoriam
These Pages Honor Our Special BTCA Friends Who Have Passed On. Of Blessed Memory We honor the following people, who passed away recently.
Memories of Special BTCA Friends
Charles Bale
Charles Bale, husband of Pamela Bale for 3 years, passed away in October, 2012 after a valiant two-year battle against leukemia. Charles enjoyed a lifetime passion as an avid pilot owning his own aircraft, licensed in single and multi-engine, commercial and cargo pilot ratings. When Pamela married, she had Dobermans, and they showed them in obedience. In early 2000, they bought a Boston Terrier and they were talked into showing their Boston,Daphne, at a fun match; they won BOB and a Group 3 and were then 'hooked on showing'! They finished Daphne to her AKC Championship, bred her and received a ROM through showing her puppies in the Bred-by-Exhibitor Class. Along the way, they fell in love with the French Bulldog. They bred AKC Champions, and enjoyed showing their Boston and French Bulldogs at Westminster and the AKC/Eukanuba Invitational. Charlie and Pam were members of the Oklahoma City BTC and served on the board and Pam has been a member of the BTCA since 2001. Pamela plans to continue being a staunch advocate for Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs. Charlie loved the sport of dog showing and all dogs in general and he will certainly be missed.
Alma Bettencourt
The Lenape Boston Terrier Club Inc. and it's members pay tribute to founding member, Alma Bettencourt - Allews' Bostons, who passed away on September 14, 2012. She and her husband, Lew Bettencourt and eight other members founded the LBTC back in 1977. Alma was the first secretary and has held offices ever since which have included President, Show Chairman and Show Secretary. Alma's love for the Boston Terrier and this club was evident and will always be appreciated. She held dub meetings in her home both in Flanders and also in Blakeslee. Alma was instrumental in running the Boston Terrier Rescue for the LBTC many years as well. Alma authored a book entitled 'Boston Terrier' that was published by Pet Love. She was a willing mentor and educator and will be missed by many. Bit-A-Swet Bostons hopes to keep the Allews' Legacy alive as Alma was truly an ambassador and consummate lover of the Boston Terrier.
Eleanor Candland ---1926-2011
The frisky pup frolicked in the yard with a soft length of yarn gently placed around her neck. She was from a long line of champions of a breed of dog nicknamed the "American Gentleman" but officially, she was a Boston Terrier. Her trainer handler carefully picked up El-Bo's "Solo Jelly Bean" and placed her on the table with rubberized top for skid safety. Ellie Candland a 22- year veteran of the show ring in world dog competition had proved herself a capable trainer and show ring handler of this effervescent breed of America. However, her skills in training and handling would shine internationally with Jelly Bean. Her dedication to a truly remarkable career began during her childhood in America's southwest of Tucson, Arizona. As a child she seemed to always have a Boston Terrier as a pet. That first connection with Boston's would come back to her nearly 30 years later. During the late 1960s Ellie was enjoying a solid career with the United States Postal Service that began in 1955. As fate would have it she met and married a co-worker Bob Candland. Bob had a childhood connection with Boston terriers, as he also had Boston Terriers as a family pet. Once Ellie and Bob discovered their interest in Boston's an adventure that lasted more than 40 years was launched. Ellie and Bob began their adventure when Ellie purchased their first Boston. He was named "OT". "Ellie paid for him with the money she had earned from her overtime hours," Bob Candland, her husband said. "She would tuck that money away in a tea cup, so when we bought OT from Pat Erickson, a San Diego breeder, that is how he got his name." So a worldwide adventure began, with "OT", and two recently married people with a childhood connection to Boston terriers, all tucked in the back of an eleven foot camper on the back of a Ford pick-up truck. Ellie's talent as a trainer set the stage for a career that would produce more than 150 champions. While Ellie used her patience and gentle tenacity to bring along those feisty handfuls of energy and bounce to compete not only nationally but also internationally, Bob took the leash in the show ring to present Ellie's work at its best. Ellie and Bob combined to make their award winning work an art form. "Ellie and Bob were a great team," Peggy Golden of Golden Kennels said. "I really admired her. She would lay the ground work in training the dogs and then step back and let Bob handle the dogs in the ring." Many agree the true secret to campaigning a finely bred dog is the patience of the trainer and skill of the handler. It was also widely accepted that Ellie could show a dog in the ring with the best of them. But her real forte was training. "I didn't have the patience to keep the level of focus needed," Bob said. "Ellie had that patience and she had great focus." Golden, also a Breeder / Owner / Handler, believed Ellie was a wealth of information. "I told Ellie she should write a book about training," Golden said. "Ellie had so many different methods to train her dogs. They were wonderfully trained, that was evident by the number of champions finished and the dog's accomplishments. Ellie never talked about what she accomplished. Ellie was an awesome trainer. Ellie and Bob were an awesome team." Bob said in show the dogs must be six months old to compete in confirmation trials. However, their training starts at around eight weeks old once they are up and around and accustomed to human hands. "Ellie would start them earlier by placing a soft string of knitting yarn around their neck," Bob said. "This would allow the dog to become accustomed to having something around their neck. She would also begin their table work to prepare them for the ring." Ellie may have picked this technique up during her childhood when she rode horses in the deserts of Arizona. Young horses are introduced to man's touch and headstalls by laying lengths of reins loosely on the colt or filly's neck. "Ellie never trained horses. However, she did tell me she was once tossed into a cactus patch by a knot-head horse on one of her rides," Bob said with a smile and a misty eye. Ellie practiced with their dogs daily, but only for two or three minutes at a time. Bob helped by petting the dogs as the dogs learned to stand on the table. Both worked together with the same goal in mind; to be together and have fun enjoying together what they enjoyed individually. In 1982 Ellie and Bob's effort rocketed them to national and international recognition when the April edition of the prestigious Kennel Review spotlighted their success with El-Bo's Rudy is a Dandy as the Number Two Non Sporting Dog in the nation for the 1981 Kennel Review award period. This was the first time in the history of the award a Boston was selected. "The best (Rudy is a Dandy) the breed has ever seen," reported the Kennel Review of the opinion of "most knowledgeable Boston experts." This unsolicited award was made more unique because Ellie and Bob were considered "relative novice(s) to the 'big time' competition." They, of course, were breeder-owner of Rudy with only 11-years in competition. This marked a mile stone for not only Ellie and Bob but all breeder-owners with love in their hearts for dogs, but also that elusive goal that of being recognized as being the "best" by those in the field. This award spotlighted the best in the American spirit of individuality and entrepreneurship. During 1992, Ellie found herself in the international spotlight again. A sparkling pup, Jelly Bean, with a color that reminded some of a delicious Eskimo Pie ice cream bar, was presented to the dog world. Ellie trained and campaigned Jelly Bean. The dog world nodded in the affirmative and said, Eleanor Candland, you have presented the 1992 United States Puppy of the Year. Ellie was whisked away, escorted by husband Bob, on a first class trip to the Crufts Dog Show in England, United Kingdom. Sixteen years later, after more wins, more champions and more adventure, Ellie and Bob received a phone call. Ron Rella of the American Kennel Club called to invite Ellie and Bob to represent the Boston breed and non-sporting group by accepting the prestigious AKC Breeder of the Year medal for the Non-Sporting Group and competing in the AKC Breeder of Year competition with all dog groups represented. The AKC Breeder of the Year award honors breeders who have dedicated their lives to improving the health, temperament and quality of purebred dogs. "It is a thrill to honor these individuals whose long-standing breeding programs have produced many successes not only for their kennel, but for their breed as a whole," said Ron Menaker, AKC's Chairman of the Board. "They deserve recognition for the time and effort they have put into breeding and exhibiting quality dogs and improving upon the foundation of their breeds." Nearly four decades of hard work and dedication seasoned with large amounts of love for their dogs and each other Ellie and Bob were recognized by AKC as the best. Ellie had led the way for this rock solid team to the Hall of Fame. Hard work was nothing new to Ellie. There was more hard work ahead. In1998 Ellie battled cancer and beat it down. She then faced a massive bacterial infection acquired by simply tending the roses she loved in her garden. More treatment and surgery followed. Elli with great patience and tenacity beat it down. However, in May of 2010 she suffered a stroke and rebounded with her typical optimistic personality and fully recovered. But 2011, she was diagnosed with cancer for a second time. Again, she regrouped and began to battle back by accepting tough treatment usually intended for younger patients. Ellie was tough. In June with great poise and composure, she looked at her husband Bob, whispered his name and squeezed his hand for the last time. An all star in the dog world had received her last accolade with grace and style and her world said good-by to a Hall of Famer. Eleanor Candland ---1926-2011.
Judith C. Cook
A proud member of the Boston Terrier Club of America, born in October of 1946, passed away peacefully on January 2 of this year. Judy lived in rural Michigan all of her life and raised 5 children there. She would tell you how she was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, a niece and a nephew. During her life she outlived two husbands, and sadly a grandson Corey. She lived alone much of her later life but recently reconnected with a childhood friend John Nichols, and the two of them brought great JOY into each others lives. Judy fell in love with Boston Terriers many years ago having learned about them after raising Boxers. Once involved with the breed she started learning how to show them and began working on developing her breeding line . She was very proud to have finished two of her dogs rather quickly and when you heard her tell the story, her girl Angel just loved the ring! If you ever spent any time visiting with Judy, either in person, on the phone or email, you knew that she cared very deeply about her dogs. She also cared enough about anyone she spoke with about our breed of choice, . to 1!1ake sure they understood everything they needed to know if they were considering adding one to their family. She remained in contact with many of the families who took her puppies home, sharing stories and photos of how they were growing up, becoming close friends. Her light in this world will be missed by the many people she touched.
Byron Elder
The Florida Suncoast Boston Terrier Club and the Boston Terrier Club of America pays tribute to Byron Elder who was an icon in the breed for many years. Byron passed away at the age of 87 on October 20, 2012. His beautiful Bostons, Renea Boston Terriers were known throughout the country. Byron did not start out breeding and handling Boston Terriers in the show ring. His first love was toy poodles and over the years, he finished 20 champions. He first got into Bostons in 1993 after his retirement and after purchasing one for his daughter. This was the start of his love for Boston Terriers. Over the years, Byron became an accomplished breeder of Bostons and finished 21. One area of Byron's life that most people may not know is that he was an AKC judge for many different breeds. He did a lot of judging in the l 960s but resigned in good standing for personal reasons. However, in the last couple of years, he decided to once again expand his knowledge as an AKC judge and he had his permit status in Chinese Cresteds, Chihuahuas, Bulldogs. French Bulldogs, Poodles and Boston Terriers. Byron will be remembered not only for his beautiful Bostons but as a flashy dresser and you always saw Byron sitting between two ladies at the Nationals with that wonderful smile. We miss you, Byron.
Patti Eisner It is with much sadness that I report the death of a dear friend, Boston breeder/fancier and club member, Patti Eisner. Patti used the prefix, "Magic" for her Bostons. Patti Eisner passed away on Monday, February 10th. She had been ill for quite some time but was able to remain at home and care for herself, as well as work a few hours a day in her grooming shop. Patti will be missed by those of us who knew and loved her. Karen Milham
Joyce Fletcher
Personal reflection on Joyce Fletcher by Dane LeJoye Joyce and I were very close. She called me nearly every day- usually around 6:30 am because she always forgot I was one hour behind her!!!! We laughed. We Cried. Sometimes we laughed until we cried. Best memory – picture this: Joyce and I shared a room at the National in Houston some years back – Joyce got the bed, and I got a cot (LOL). One night – sometime around midnight - the fire alarm went off. I'm sound asleep. Joyce jumps up – in her nightie, and shouts, "Dane, wake up, the hotel in on fire!" So I jump up – in my tighty whities face to-face with Joyce in her nightie. She says – "hey nice legs." Laughter erupts, we both throw on a robe and head for the exit. The Boston Terrier breed has been blessed throughout its history with many dedicated and devoted breeders, who all played a significant role in the betterment of the breed. Joyce Fletcher was one such breeder. Joyce was a Boston Terrier breeder for over 35 years and produced many fine specimens of the breed. But she was more than that. In addition, to her contribution to the breed, Joyce contributed to the lives of all who came to know her. Joyce served our breed and our national club in many capacities – breeder, judge, national show chair, corresponding secretary, vice president, and on countless Board committees – not to mention her involvement in the many affiliate club she jointed. No task was too great, and she never said "no! Hard-working, hard-willed, dedicated, but above all fun-loving. Joyce made friends with everyone she came in contact. Many of us who knew her best have stories we have all shared that will keep us smiling for years to come. Near the end of her life, and knowing that the time was near when she would join her creator in heaven, Joyce reached out to those closest to her to ensure the dogs that remained in her care would have forever homes. We will all miss Joyce for her many contributions, her antics, her laughter, her spirituality. But most of all, for her friendship and inspiration. P.S. Chelbe is doing just fine Joyce!
IN MEMORY OF JUDY KAY GABRIEL
Judy Gabriel lived in Akron, Ohio most of her life. As a young girl, Judy had a calling to help people of all ages. At one time, Judy worked for a family who had a handicapped child that could not talk or see and Judy taught this child to talk and to get around. Judy also worked at a camp in Summit County, Ohio. This camp was for disabled young people. She helped many children to learn to do what they could do for themselves. One of the boys had no arms and no legs but wanted to go swimming. Judy picked up the little boy like a sack of potatoes, put him under her arm, walked down to the lake and took him swimming. Judy's mom and dad said, "That's our Judy". As a small child, Judy's grandfather, AKC Judge and Boston Terrier breeder, Joe Faigel, would take Judy to dog shows. She would get so tired that she would crawl into on of the crates and go to sleep. Again, her mom said "that's my Judy". Judy had a calling to the Boston's as she loved them and they loved her. She did not know a stranger. If someone were new to the dog world, Judy would go up to him or her and say, "Hi, that's a nice dog. Can I help you groom your dog?" Then off she would go with the novice handler to help in any way she could. Judy had thousands of friends. Sound like an exaggeration? It's not. She did many kind acts. With one novice show person, Judy noticed that the handler was very nervous. She introduced herself; gave the novice handler a few pointers; then she took the Boston Terrier porcelain pin off her own shirt and pinned it on the new person's shirt. She told her, "This will bring you luck". This person still has the pin Judy gave to her and will always remember this incident. Judy also volunteered at the Battered Women's Shelter and the Food Bank. Her concern for others, human and animal, was paramount. Judy was a golden thread that held all her friends together and she will be missed! And, as your memories of Judy Kay Gabriel begin to unfold, always remember, Judy Gabriel had a heart of gold.
DOROTHY PAMELA GOMES Dorothy Pamela Gomes was a person from humble beginnings who became a pillar of strength in the Wakefield community of the Northeast Bronx. Dorothy improved the quality of life for area residents by being instrumental in restoring bus transportation services at the East 233rd Street train station, after the New York City Transit Authority discontinued the bus route. She was also involved in several social, religious, educational and political activities. Her optimistic and indomitable spirit, along with her great contributions to the Northeast Bronx will be remembered and cherished forever. Dorothy was the Former Secretary of the Boston Terrier Club of New York from 1980 to 1995.
DOROTHY PAMELA GOMES WAY designated street sign is located at the corner of East 233rd Street and Edenwald Avenue. Bronx. NY 10466. This historic street naming was voted on, and approved by the New York City Council In honor of Dorothy's contributions to the Northeast Bronx, specifically in the area of transportation. Dorothy was, the first woman to be granted a bus franchise in New York State.
Donna Kay Halbardier
Greater Houston Boston Terrier Club member and former officer, Ragtyme show dogs, owner and exhibitor of show quality Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, not touched, but are felt in the heart:' Helen Keller
Stella Luciene Jowers
Stella Jowers was not a long time Boston Terrier breeder but was quite successful in her short time breeding. She purchased her first two show Bostons from Helen Hopkins in 2008. Helen introduced Stella to me at the Clemson shows in January 2009 and asked that I mentor her. At the time one of her girls was a beautiful bitch named, Melanie. Melanie beat my bitch that day and so the competition began!!! Stella was fearless, determined, smart, sassy, hilarious and an awesome cook. In her short time showing she won Winner’s Bitch, Best of Winners and Best Puppy at the 2012 BTCA National in Houston, Texas with Georgia (Ch Tara Oaks Georgia on My Mind) and the following year at the BTCA National in Bloomingdale, IL, India (Ch Lil Miss India) won Best in Sweepstakes, Grand Futurity Puppy and Reserve Winner’s Bitch. She loved the movie Gone with the Wind and thus her kennel name “Tara Oaks”. She primarily named her dogs from the characters in the movie. Outside of dogs, Stella was an entrepreneur at heart and had several successful business ventures in her career. Although she never had children, she was stepmother to her husband’s children and loved telling tales of her vacation trips with just her and 6 small grandchildren. Stella was the glue that held the family together and most gatherings were held with Stella in the middle joking, cooking, and living it up!!! Stella was told in March of 2021 she had stage 4 cancer and fought with all her being until the day she passed, Nov. 4, 2021. If you knew her, celebrate the memories you have of her and if you didn’t know her I wish you had as she was special. Linda Martin
Kip Kennedy
Kip Kennedy was a great husband, father, and friend. He was a man who supported all in the Boston Sport. Here he is with his Rumor, the few times we let him in the ring! He was so proud of winning with his girl. My love, my friend, I miss you so… Thank you to all who showed so much love and kindness. A big hug to you all. Vicki Kennedy Susan Krouse
I know it has been several months since Susan's death, but I feel the need to express my sadness at the turn her life took in her last year, and to remember her and some of her accomplishments. I sold Susan her first Boston Terrier show dog, Emma, Ch. Katbird's Special Edition in 1995. Susan was so proud of her, and showed her to many Breed wins and at least one Group One that I recall. I later sent Emma's littermate, Mr. Darcy, to Susan to finish. Darcy (or Darman as Susan would call him) lived a long life with Susan and sired several beautiful champions. Susan was intensely interested in the breed's history, especially with the legendary Byrmar Bostons, and salvaged that line of dogs, breeding the remaining Byrnar male, Byrmar's Brass Sass N Class ROM, into her line, resulting in many champions. Her dedication to the breed was reflected in her serving as President of the Golden Gate Boston Terrier Club for many years, during which time they hosted one of the most memorable BTCA National Specialties in Reno, NV in 2011. This National was so impressive not only because of the venue but due to the number of entries Susan had to hire additional judges. This was the first and last time the entries exceeded the one-day judging maximum at the BTCA National. One of the host specialty judges, the late Rick Beauchamp, was so impressed he featured that National in his column in Dogs In Review. He wrote: "Someone should put a giant gold star on the forehead of Susan Krouse of the Golden Gate Boston Terrier Club." and went on to laud her management of that show. That National garnered some respect for Susan, and she became more involved with the National Club. She received the Mira Jilbert Good Sportsmanship Award in 2015, and served as Vice-President of the BTCA from 2016-2018. When she came to show in Lexington KY in 2015, it was the happiest I had ever seen her. In 2017 she once again hosted the National Specialty, this time in Las Vegas. The year prior to that, Susan had two of her dogs stolen from her car while attending a show in Albuquerque NM. Susan loved her dogs, and spent over two weeks in Albuquerque frantically searching for them. These were not her current show dogs-these were two senior dogs- yet Susan exhausted herself physically and financially trying to find them. Their story went all over Facebook, and received local TV coverage, Reward funds were raised by her friends and the reward grew large enough that both Sara and Mona were miraculously recovered Unfortunately, the stress of that situation, plus her once again nearly single-handedly running the 2017 National, took a toll on her already fragile health. Shortly after returning from the National, one or more people took it upon themselves to have Susan's dogs taken from her, including Sara and Mona, that she had worked so hard to recover. Her plaintive pleas on Facebook to find Sara were heart-breaking. Susan's dogs were her life, and this was a blow from which she could not recover. In the end, one dog, Janet, whom she had been specialing the previous two years, was returned to her-spayed- to go with her everywhere as a service dog. I knew Susan nearly 25 years. She was tough, she was hardened by her life, and she spoke her mind. But for those who judged her harshly and made her life difficult, I say to you- Shame. There was not a person who loved her dogs more, who loved this breed more. She was so passionate about those things. She valued her friends and would do anything in her power for them. She could be generous to a fault. To those of us who called her friend, we knew she had a heart of gold. To the rest-well-you messed up. Kathryn Graves, May 30, 2019 Ruth M. Lieberg
Ruth was one of the few members of the Boston Terrier Club of America who achieved the status of being honored as a Lifetime Member. She was also a member of the South Windsor Kennel Club, Boston Terrier Club of Connecticut, & founding member of the Minuteman Boston Terrier Club. Ruth was extremely instrumental in the campaign to make the BTCA a truly national parent club. She was awarded the coveted Gaines Medal of Good Sportsmanship as well as the Mira Jilbert Good Sportsmanship Award. Until 2010, Ruth, at the age of 91, attended and worked at every National Show. In her showing days, she won BOB in 1997 as well as BOS in 1976. She has spent numerous hours transporting shining, and setting up the trophies for the national. She was also involved with the Connecticut Children's Burn Camp. She also enjoyed horseback riding, skiing, ski rescue patrol, and golf. Many members remember Ruth best as the "lady at the catalog table". Ruth will always be remembered by the Boston Terrier Club of America for her integrity, enthusiasm, contributions to the Board as a member and treasurer, and her undying devotion to the betterment of the Boston Terrier.
Rosalind "Ann" McCammon
Rosalind "Ann" McCammon, 73, of Prairieton, passed away at 12:26 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2010. She was born in Sullivan on Nov. 20, 1936, the daughter of Howard Young and Thelma Keagy Young. She was a member of the First Christian Church in Sullivan, the Terre Haute Kennel Club and the Boston Terrier AKC Club. She was preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include her husband of 55 years, James L. McCammon; three sons, Jeff McCammon (Kelly) of Matthews, N.C., Todd McCammon (Annette) of Houston, Kerry McCammon (Jennifer) of Sugarland, Texas; one daughter, Cathy McCammon of Sugarland; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 17, 2010, at Banks and Brust Funeral Home with the Rev. Dale Wise officiating. Friends may call from 1 p.m. until service time Sunday. Cremation will follow.
Liz and Rod McNeil
After some six decades of married life, the McNeils never regretted getting a Boston Terrier to cement their union. They subsequently went on to have some famous Bostons in their lives; most notable was Sara, CH Barra's Highland Lassie, sired by their CH Vinny P of Agincourt. Sara went on to win Best of Breed at the Maryland BTC Specialty in 1991 as well as ten other specialties. But Sara's illustrious career really was solidified with Best of Breed wins at the Westminster KC in 1992, 1993 and again 1996 and almost unprecedented wins at the BTCA Nationals of 1992, 1994 and 1996. The McNeil's bred five other Bostons that won specialties -- what resounding success to their astute breeding program. We in the Boston fancy applaud their many years of devotion to furthering the breed through much hard work and dedication. Their superb mentoring, hands-on participation in many facets of Club involvement, constant on-the-scene · presence and genuine friendship will be greatly missed. Al Nicks
Al was a delegate to the American Kennel Club and a director of the Cudahy Kennel Club. He was an advisory to the Boston Terrier Club of Milwaukee and a past director of the Senior Conformation Judges Association. His past involvement with the purebred dog sport included president of the Boston Terrier Club of America, president of the Boston Terrier Club of Milwaukee and president of the Dog Federation of Wisconsin. He was active in working for sound, dog-related legislation and against breed specific legislation. Al was active in judges' education. He presented the Boston Standard at education seminars in Chicago, Oklahoma City, Las Vegas and Atlanta. Al's unique sense of humor endeared him to everyone he met. We are all indebted to the many contributions Al made during his many years of involvement with the Boston Terrier breed.
Norm Randall
Norm was truly a family man, a patriotic man, an organized man and a true leader. Most of all, he was a great friend and confident. Norm was a retired Captain in the US Navy. That experience taught him the qualities. His leadership skills were evident in the Boston Terrier Club of Maryland and the Boston Terrier Club of America. He was president and show chairman of the Maryland Club tor many years, and his leadership brought prominence to the club. In 1994, Norm was elected president of the Boston Terrier Club of America, where he was known for his hard work and sincerity. Norm and Marilyn have lived all over the country due to various military stations. As a kid, one of the dogs that he grew up with was a Boston Terrier. When stationed at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, he and Marilyn bought their first Boston - Micker - from a pet store. Norm went off to Vietnam and when he came home, Micker was so attached to Marilyn that he wouldn't let Norm near her! While stationed in San Diego, they bought a female Boston, as the kids wanted Micker to get married. They kept a female puppy and were introduced to the old members of the Maryland Club; the Shelbys; the Maleys; the Steeles; the Duncans; and the Kellys. They all mentored Norm and Marilyn and thus, their showing career began. Norm's first champions were Ginger and Boomer, and they have had many champions since then! Norm was an excellent handler and groomer, and he delighted in sharing his skills with everyone. When he was in the ring, he was kidded as to who he was showing off - himself or the dog - as he always looked so dapper! Norm was blessed with a wonderful wife and family! He was fun to be with, as he had a great sense of humor. The Bostons added a truly new dimension to Norm and Marilyn's life! After many honors and wins, including two BOB's at the Garden, Norm's favorite Boston was Biscuit. She was a great-great granddaughter of Duffy. In conclusion, one of Norm's mottos was 'Once you own a Boston, you will always own a Boston'.
MEMORIAL TRIBUTE TO JANET LEE REES
Janet and Boston Terriers traveled through life together. From the day she was born until the end, she had the joy of one or more Bostons in the home thanks to parents, grandparents and a husband who also adored the American Gentleman. Like another BTCA member who preceded her in death, Janet too encountered polio as a youngster that led to the deterioration of her health in senior years but her childhood Boston named Corky was always at her side during that illness. As the years passed, many other Bostons filled her life with the joy of loving dogs and being loved by them in return. Eventually that affection led to the show ring as well as to membership in the Heart of America Kennel Club for the past 30 years. Each of those years was devoted to serving the club and the dog fancy in many ways including the most recent 13 years as club secretary and board member. She tackled all jobs large and small, complex and simple with the same energetic enthusiasm that she lavished on her dogs. With a helping hand and a winning smile, Janet made friends from coast to coast and border to border as she competed on the show circuit. Many Boston clubs benefited from her passion for serving and her desire to help smaller clubs financially. She enjoyed membership in the Topeka Boston Terrier Club (now known as the Heartland club) that she served as President; the Oklahoma City club that she served as Publicity Chairman; the Des Moines club; the New York club that provided a special moment of pleasure when she was able to loan them some club artifacts to display during their Centennial show and the Boston Terrier Club of America that she served as National Treasurer and Board member and helped plan several National Specialties. With Karen Milham, she formed and co-chaired the Perpetual Trophy Committee to preserve the BTCA's spectacular, vintage trophies and teamed with Betty Swick to establish The Boston Quarterly to provide the Boston fancy with a professionally published showcase for their beloved Bostons. Janet served the Quarterly as an Advisory Editor from its inception in 1987 to the present. An avid collector of Boston Terrier memorabilia, she enjoyed assembling an outstanding collection representing the breed that adopted her so many years ago. Two of her biggest thrills were to attend her first dog show (the Topeka club's 1980 specialty show) while searching for a puppy that ultimately led to beginning her show career and to help plan and present the BTCA's Centennial Show in Hyannis, Massachusetts in 1991. The joy of seeing what the breed had evolved into during the club's first 100 years was a thrill that she cherished for the remainder of her life. Janet's one unfulfilled desire was to become an AKC judge and she devoted herself to meeting the various requirements to achieve that goal but lengthy and numerous medical issues prevented a successful conclusion to her dream. Independent and strong willed, but with sound judgment, a willing and loyal advocate of the dog has been silenced. However, her service will continue through the many friends who were touched by her devotion as they continue their own commitment to the sport of dogs. No doubt Janet is already at work helping God organize dog shows in Heaven to continue what is done on earth for our beloved Bostons and to provide a venue for those who want to show their dogs forever. She dearly loved Bostons and the BTCA! A video of Janet's life is available for viewing at www.tributes.com. Memorial donations in Janet's name are suggested to the BTCA's Perpetual Trophy Fund or to the Boston Terrier Fund at the AKC's Museum of the Dog, St. Louis, Missouri. Written by Janet's devoted and heart-broken husband, Richard
In memory of Mr. John C. Riley of Kansas City Mo. John passed away recently after a long and successful show carrier with his beloved Bostons. John's family and many friends will miss his smiling face and loving disposition. His devotion to his Bostons was unlimited. John will be at our shows in spirit and in his Boston's legacy.
Marian Robben
ROBMAR BOSTON TERRIERS Marian supported Boston Terrier rescue and many Boston Terrier clubs with her membership, entries, ads, donations and her time. These clubs included the Pacific Coast BTC, San Diego BTC, Pasadena BTC, Tri-Angle BTC, Golden Gate BTC, Valley of the Sun BTC, and the Boston Terrier Club of America. For more than 18 years, she was the BTCA Obedience/Performance Awards chairman. And she never missed an opportunity to sit in the California Eukanuba Meet the Breed Booth for the BTCA to tell people about her beloved breed. Marian leaves a void in the lives and hearts of her many friends who will miss her terribly.
Helen "Trudy" Sample
Trudy Sample was 87 years old when she passed away August 27, 2013. She was mother of three, grandmother of four, and a lover of Boston Terriers. Trudy was passionate in everything that was of interest to her. Boston Terriers were one of her passions. She was an art teacher and a science teacher at Nipher Junior High School in Kirkwood, MO. She also served as a school board member and was president of the Kirkwood School Board at one time. She was an active church member. Trudy did not keep many dogs, probably no more than three at a time. Her first Champion was CH Sabe's Spiked Punch. This was followed by a daughter of his, CH Sabe's Unique Champaign Punch. Trudy and Sharon Saberton co-owned CH Sabe's Gold Dust. All of these dogs were bred and handled by Sharon Saberton. Trudy also owned CH Kirkwood's Happy Abby and CH Ivyglcn's Kirkwood Autumn. She was the breeder of two All-Breed Best In Show Bostons: MBIS MBISS CH Klassic Irish Prince, owned by Beccy Smith and BIS BISS CH Kirkwoods Cosmo Knows Who Dun It, owned by Pamela Preston. Trudy was Vice President of BTCA in 1988-1989 and President in 1989-1990. She put together the first job descriptions for the committees of the BTCA. Trudy also started the BTCA Health Committee and was the author of The Boston Puppy Book -Help for Boston Terrier Breeders and lead author of The Boston Terrier Owners Puppy Handbook. In her later years, Trudy did not travel much but connected with a new generation of Boston Terrier fanciers through Internet discussion groups, where she often reached out to "newbies" to offer help, especially in relation to health issues. Several of our members visited her about two weeks before her death, and she was asking about the Health Committee and the BTCA National. She still had her interest and dedication for the Boston and the BTCA. Sharon Saberton
MARY JO SCHREIMANN As a child, Mary Jo had two things which would remain with her for the rest of her life: polio at the age of 19 months and a Boston Terrier. Both challenged her throughout her lifetime, one bringing pain, the other immense joy. Mary Jo loved life and "NEVER QUIT"! During her high school years, she participated in sports and played the French Horn in the band. In May 1957, she graduated from St. Mary's School of Nursing in Kansas City, Missouri, having served as President of the Missouri State Nurses Association and Delegate to the International Council of Nurses in Rome, Italy. She continued in this career until 1959 when she entered the Religious of the Cenacle where she remained until 1967. It was then that she continued her education, completing her B.A. at St. Louis University and then her M.Ed. at the University of Missouri in 1971. From there, she continued to work in health related fields. Mary Jo never forgot her first Boston Terrier. In 1973, she purchased "Jo's Tiny Darling". Tiny was her sidekick and the foundation of her continued love of the Boston Terrier. In the next twenty-nine years, she shared her love and home to sixteen Bostons and Ginger. In 1978, Beacon's was adopted as a kennel name by Mary Jo and Marian Sheehan. As each of the eighty plus puppies were born, Mary Jo would give them what they needed; tube feeding, burping, a lap to sit in, extra socialization, etc. etc. She was co-breeder of the 1991 Boston Terrier of the Year, CH Beacon's Do-Go Sunny of Sabe. Sunny would go onto achieve many other honors, and Mary Jo was proud of him. But those who knew her, knew that she was no more prouder of him than all of the other champions and nonchampions. She carried each one of them around with her, and hated to see them go to their new homes............Always wanting the best for them. As time began to wear her body down, she would lovingly give them rides on her battery-operated cart. I'm not sure who was having more fun, the Bostons or Mary Jo. In all of life, Mary Jo lived fully. She loved playing her French Horn, enjoyed flowers, gardening, stained glass, antiquing, and so many things. On June 6, 2003, surrounded by friends, she died of cancer. It was one of the few times a Boston Terrier was not physically by her side.. Written by Marian Sheehan
Charles Stevenson 
On April 25 of 2004, the Boston Terrier world lost a great ambassador. Early Friday morning, the day after the National specialty in Frederick MD, Charles Stevenson suffered a massive coronary and passed away. He was with friends in the hotel lobby waiting for the airport shuttle. He was in his element that week, doing what he loved with people he cared about. He had found the time to visit with most everyone. He was tickled with his auction wins and with the antique bookends he had found in Leesburg VA. He had a great time bragging about the senior discount he had gotten. The void Charles' death leaves resonates like the proverbial pebble-in-the-pond, each ring separate but connected, each ring claiming him as its own. Charles was the core of so many organizations, so many relationships. We've always recognized that. We realized his importance. We talked about it. We shared it with him. It humbled him, which in turn made us respect him more. Charles was serving the last year of his term as vice president of the BTCA. He was the hospitality host at the national specialty. There to greet friends, old and new, he was handsome in his dark suit and hat. He said he had to have a hat, because then the ladies would give him more hugs. He collected hugs like a kid collects baseball cards, recounting who had hugged him best and most often, always keeping score. Charles was a hard worker. He was the go-to guy; the man who had all the answers or knew who to ask. He took on as many tasks as were asked of him, and then some. The members of the Boston Terrier Club of Western Washington knew that all too well. He was a founding member, serving as president for the first 21 years. After he finally was allowed to step down, he continued as a board member. He acted as facilitator, arbitrator and administrator. He tried to become a behind the scenes person, but it didn't happen. His persona was just too familiar, too important. He remained the heart of the club. And so the void. It will take a lot to try to fill it------a task that might never be accomplished. The BTCA and BTCWW are only two clubs among many that will miss Charles immensely. He was president of the Olympia Dog Fanciers Association. He served as vice president, long-time show chairman and devoted member of the BTC of Portland, Oregon. He was a long-time member of the local Maltese club, as well as the Orchid Society and a bridge club. He was dedicated to the kids he taught and loyal to his friends. He had four Bostons and a Maltese and was proud of them all. He touched so many people. Each of us claimed him as our own, and he claimed us. Helen Johnson
Anna Spurling Sunday
Anna Louise Spurling Roark Sunday was born 1949 in Grants Pass – died at her home on Tuesday, November 23, 2010. She grew up in Grants Pass, graduated from Grants Pass High School in 1967 and attended Graceland University. She was the granddaughter of a local early settler and nationally recognized Jersey dairyman, Franz Schutzwohl. She spent most of her life raising show-type Boston Terriers and was one of America's top Boston Breeders. She was given her first dog at age 3 and at age 8 she was taking a dog into the show ring at a 4-H event. At one time she owned the Pet Parlor Dog Grooming shop in town. She spent lots of time traveling to dog shows to showcase her Sunglo Bostons and won many of the very top national awards. Her recent successes included: 2003 Best in Show (BIS) of Bred-By-Exhibitor entries She always tried to breed a better Boston and to be a part of the gene pool to improve breed quality. Among her many other activities were 9 years as a facilitator at St. Anne's Divorced, Widowed and Separated group, 15 years as a realtor, and 4 years doing “soup and bread” circles as an extension of the Living Enrichment Center teachings. She enjoyed laughing, reading, taking her grandsons on “missions”, personal growth (retreats and Klemmer seminars), and music. She married Neal Roark in 1974 and divorced 18 years later. On June 3, 2000 she married Thomas Sunday. Her closest living relatives, all from Grants Pass, include: Thomas Sunday, spouse; Harriet & Steve Kolias, mother and step-father; Phillip and Jeremy Roark, sons; Carol Spurling and Joy Ivie, sisters; Aunt Marie Hutchins and honorary family member, Edna Swift. She had 7 grandchildren, 3 step-sisters, a step-brother and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Phillip Earl Spurling, her grandmother, Clara Spurling, and her brother, Bobby Anderson.
Donald T. Van Avery
My beloved husband, Don Van Avery, passed away in August 2021 from MDS, a rare blood disorder. Don was a past President of the Boston Terrier Club of America. Posted with a heavy heart by his wife Deana Jones, past show chair and treasurer.
Nancy Washburn
Nancy Washburn passed away in late 2012 at the age of 82. She was a teacher and taught at Narragansett Regional School in Massachusetts where she was a reading specialist tor many years and also an avid reader. A little known fact by many was that Nancy was a talented musician (a drummer) and played in many local bands and she also gave drum lessons while her husband of 60 years taught the trumpet. Nancy was active in raising and showing purebred dogs. She· had Springer Spaniels in the 70s but soon fell in love with the Boston Terrier. She spent many active years as a BTCA board member. She was also the Founder of the Minuteman BTCA. In the late. 70s and early 80s her dog, Ch. Pequoag's Special Beau, was the #1 dog in Canada tor two years. Yes, Nancy was a very special person, always worked hard for the breed and the breeders of Boston terriers, always ready to educate anyone and she was a believer in healthy quality dogs. Her husband, Allyn, is learning lo carry on without her as well as her three boys and one daughter. Nancy will certainly be missed. She was a lovely lady and certainly knew and loved the breed, the Boston Terrier.
Tribute to Karen Sue Wilson
On May 14, 2004 the club suffered a great loss of a great friend Karen Sue Wilson, our president. It was a very sad day for us at the 2004 Specialty. Our hearts were heavy and our eyes were full of tears as we showed our fur babies. Karen was such a great friend to so many people throughout her life, through work, showing her Bostons and with her family and friends. The quote by Winston Churchill best describes Karen – "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." Karen was such a giving person - by the love that she gave to her family and friends and the devotion that she had in her work. The Club will miss her willingness to pitch in as needed and the giving of her time and her heart.
The only way to take the sorrow out of death is to take love out of life." Author Unknown
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