Tribute to Shadow

A Tribute to Shadow

Shadow the Groundhog passed away Friday, August 6, 1999.
Below is his obituary from Bob Lutz...

To all of our dear friends and colleagues.....

I am extremely sad to report that Shadow, our beloved pet groundhog died suddenly this past Friday afternoon. Shadow began to develop respiratory problems shortly after we returned home from a public appearance in Coeur d' Alene, Idaho. I rushed him to Ponte Animal clinic here in Otis Orchards, but despite their valiant efforts, they were unable to revive him. I requested an autopsy which ultimately revealed that Shadow had genetic liver cancer which had spread to his lungs. We had no clue he was even sick! His appetite was great and until his respiratory distress on Friday, he showed no signs of any illness. Ponte Animal clinic said that they sincerely believe that while he was alive he had little or no pain as evidenced by his enormous appetite, which is typically non-existent in animals that feel bad.

This has been quite a shock to us! As I write this to you all, I am just overwhelmed with grief.... Shadow was not only a SPECIAL pet to our immediate family, but he was also a special pet to much of the Inland Northwest. During his short 12 month stay with us, Shadow also became a very special part of our Weather Van education program, and won the hearts of kids and adults alike all around our region.

At this time, plans to obtain another groundhog are uncertain due to availability. As a memorial to Shadow, and to help us all "celebrate" his short time with us, I plan on putting together a picture display which will be available for the kids to view inside the Weather Watcher Van during the upcoming school year. In further memory of Shadow, I have also enclosed some pictures depicting some of his special moments with us.

In closing, I can only say this....... Shadow will be SORELY MISSED!