MacIntyre "Mack" Trigger Duncan Schwindler
January 2005 - June 2018
Mack came into Emily's life at a time when she wanted a big dog.
What she really gained was a protector, confidante, and best friend.
An awkward stumble of large paws and huge ears bounded out of the small apartment bathroom and there he was. The early years were a bit of a struggle - learning to go to the bathroom outside and that new glasses and puzzle glue are certainly not food. But we found our pace - studying together, watching Tony Danza together and doing pilates.
Mack helped Emily through the most difficult parts of her story.
He saved her when she needed saving, comforted her when she cried, laid with her when her king-sized bed felt incredibly empty, and accepted when she had to be away for awhile.
After all the hardships, Mack was joyous to be there when things turned around.
He became best friends with Greg, earning the name "Shadow".
He and Greg sat fireside with a diamond ring - discussing the future on the eve of Emily's engagement.
Mack welcomed Greg into his home and found that it was even more fun.
Soon he was sniffing Emily's belly and snuggling her legs in the days leading up to Victor's arrival.
Although dog-dog didn't have much say in bringing the infant home, he protected him fiercely.
All the late-night feedings and having more people in his space all day took some getting used to,
but he loved Victor and all the awkward petting and sloppy kisses.
Just as Victor was able to start walking Mack and feeding him treats, another life began.
Again, Mack comforted Emily all through her pregnancy. Never leaving her side if she was at home.
And again, he sniffed the head of this newborn baby girl and fell in love.
One of the only times she ever napped outside her crib as an infant was next to him on a blanket in the living room.
Mack bore witness to the pains and joys of Emily's story.
He was a loveable, patient companion who allowed Charlie to bite and snuggle him.
He was a wild adventurer who cleared the fence to chase a squirrel.
He was a delicate shrimp eater who always left the tails.
He was a gentle toy squeezer who was known to hold onto his favorites for years.
He was a paw-licker, a grass rubber and an ear flapper.
He was a fierce protector who barked at every shadow outside the front door.
He was the best clean-up assistant for a messy toddler at meal time.
Most of all...he was a wild tail wagging at the end of the day; a soft embrace of pure love.
He leaves a hole in our family which will never be filled.
Victor reminds us that he is, "always in our hearts."
The last night of his life was spent in his spot in the living room; next to his mother of 13 years.
The pain of a body well-used and well-loved made for a long last night together.
But in some ways, we did not want it to end.
Under the weeping branches of our blackberry tree, we gave him his last sips of beer.
He looked into Emily and Greg's eyes as we embraced him from this life to the next.
Ashley showed up soon after to spend some time mourning together and coming to terms with the incredible loss.
His ashes are housed in a rock urn that will be in nature.
He will always be near us; as will be the lessons he taught
and the love he leaves behind.
Mack, you are loved. Mack, you are missed. Mack, you are remembered.
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