Angus van der Woerd, ?? - 2011

Today marks the end of a great life. Angus van der Woerd was loved by all who met him.

We didn’t select Angus in a store, or by picking him from the litter. We lived in his massive West Van territory and because of that, he owned us. However, he selected my parents, over his original staff, to see to the administration of his mealtimes and night-time shelter.

He was a outdoor hunter with a lion’s heart, but grew into other roles as he aged. Care-giver, and then indoor relaxation consultant as his body mass shrank to less than half of what he was in his prime.

Angus was the centre of a vibrant community of beings that helped him in his later years as he had helped others. Selena, Kathy, Tessa, Irene, Marisa, Angus's aunt Ann, and the West Van neighbors all went so far out of their way caring for him. The lives of Wendie, Pete, Ben, Steve and of course Eleanor were touched by every day spent with Angus (known as Rupert to some).

Angus truly was a part of our family in every sense of the word. His species was irrelevant.

Angus stood by mom for all the years she was ill, and comforted those that she left behind by keeping us smiling and reminding us all how much relaxation is a great healer.

I’m certain he is with her now, as he should be.

We believe Angus was between 16 and 18 years old.

He will be missed.