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If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went. PLEASE LIGHT A CANDLE Cindy Johnstonbaugh writes: It is with great sadness that I inform you that Joey passed away March 4, 2015 at 6:15 p.m. Joey would have been 75 on March 11. Recently she experienced several medical setbacks. She was hospitalized after having a heart attack, released, and then readmitted for gallstones. The surgery was successful, but unfortunately her kidneys stopped functioning. Her good friend Cheryl was with her and promised to care for Coby, Joey's remaining Airedale and heart dog, Joey nodded and smiled at that. They shared some prayers, her breathing tube was removed, and she peacefully slipped away. Joey had all the best characteristics of the Airedales she knew, loved, and had helped since 1975 when a friend asked her to help place an Airedale puppy. Thousands of Airedales needing assistance have literally passed through her hands as she comforted & groomed them to perfection. In 1990, Joey was instrumental in encouraging the Airedale Terrier Club of America to take a more active role in Airedale Rescue. The ATCA agreed to set up an Adoption Committee if she would chair it, which she did for five years. That was the beginning of the incredible Airedale Rescue Network we all believe in and support today. We current volunteers, and those who follow us, must continue her life's mission to find loving homes for all Airedales in need. There is a hole in the world tonight, but may we find comfort thinking of her welcome at the Rainbow Bridge and being reunited with her beloved husband Bill. [See our fundraiser for Joey's new shower and updates HERE] RAINBOW BRIDGE FOR RESCUERS Unlike most days at Rainbow Bridge, this day dawned cold and gray, damp as a swamp and as dismal as could be imagined. All of the recent arrivals had no idea what to think, as they had never experienced a day like this before. But the animals who had been waiting for their beloved people knew exactly what was going on and started to gather at the pathway leading to The Bridge to watch. It wasn't long before an elderly animal came into view, head hung low and tail dragging. The other animals, the ones who had been there for while, knew what his story was right away, for they had seen this happen far too often. He approached slowly, obviously in great emotional pain, but with no sign of injury or illness. Unlike all of the other animals waiting at The Bridge, this animal had not been restored to youth and made healthy and vigorous again. As he walked toward The Bridge, he watched all of the other animals watching him. He knew he was out of place here and the sooner he could cross over, the happier he would be. But, alas, as he approached The Bridge, his way was barred by the appearance of an Angel who apologized, but told him that he would not be able to pass. Only those animals who were with their people could pass over Rainbow Bridge. With no place else to turn to, the elderly animal turned towards the fields before The Bridge and saw a group of other animals like himself, also elderly and infirm. They weren't playing, but rather simply lying on the green grass, forlornly staring out at the pathway leading to The Bridge. And so, he took his place among them, watching the pathway and waiting. One of the newest arrivals at The Bridge didn't understand what he had just witnessed and asked one of the animals that had been there for a while to explain it to him. "You see, that poor animal was a rescue. He was turned in to rescue just as you see him now, an older animal with his fur graying and his eyes clouding. He never made it out of rescue and passed on with only the love of his rescuer to comfort him as he left his earthly existence. Because he had no family to give his love to, he has no one to escort him across The Bridge." The first animal thought about this for a minute and then asked, "So what will happen now?" As he was about to receive his answer, the clouds suddenly parted and the gloom lifted. Approaching The Bridge could be seen a single person and among the older animals, a whole group was suddenly bathed in a golden light and they were all young and healthy again, just as they were in the prime of life. "Watch, and see", said the second animal. A second group of animals from those waiting came to the pathway and bowed low as the person neared. At each bowed head, the person offered a pat on the head or a scratch behind the ears. The newly-restored animals fell into line and followed her towards The Bridge. They all crossed The Bridge together. "What happened?" "That was a rescuer. The animals you saw bowing in respect were those who found new homes because of her work. They will cross when their new families arrive. Those you saw restored were those who never found homes. When rescuers arrive, they are allowed to perform one final act of rescue. They are allowed to escort those poor animals that they couldn't place on earth across The Rainbow Bridge." -- Author Unknown MARE MOORE, Canada: I didn't know Joey personally but her example shone so brightly one could not help but notice. Although she may now have lost her physical battle, her battle to save Airedales in need carries on as her loving spirit continues to guide & encourage those who rescue as she herself did so well in life. My mind's eye can see the many wagging tails that greeted Joey as she performed her final act of rescue and helped those 'dales that weren't able to before, to cross o'er the RB. doG speed Joey to your well-deserved rest! SANDE MANCINI: Tis a SAD day indeed for all who knew her and the Airedale Kingdom. She is at peace now, no more suffering and I am sure she had peace of mind when she passed, knowing her beloved Airedale would be well cared for. I will light a candle tonight in her memory. BETTE & BILL LEYDEN: Words cannot describe how I feel. Joey was taken from us way too soon. It was a pleasure to have known her for the seven years that I did. CHRISTINE SHEFFER: I've had many friends and mentors in rescue. People like Chris Halvorson & Liz Mattison encouraged Tim & me to lend a hand. This led me to meeting Joey. Joey, the human lady with an Airedale heart. They say people come into your life for a reason and this is very true of Joey. She helped me fine tune my skill with lively conversation and debate. She and I had many of these spirited conversations -l always in a respectful way. She was right sometimes and I think I was right sometimes. In the end, we learned from each other. (Well, I probably learned more from her.) When I was president of National Airedale Rescue she stood quietly by my side and gave sage advice. I didn't really understand how much I learned until later. I truly believe that when other groups look to National Airedale Rescue for a blueprint on how to do rescue right, it is because Joey gave us such a strong foundation. It is no exaggeration that the Airedale Rescue organization that we have built is thanks to her efforts and those of her supporters in the early days - rescue wasn't popular then but it was still right and ethical. My heart hurts tonight. Joey spoke Airedale with 100% expertise. She understood dogs in a way most people do not. She would be the first to tell you that she understood the Airedales far better than she understood most people. Joey had no tolerance for people who were unjust in their treatment of dogs or of people in need. She was willing to take a stand and do what she believed to be right and ethical even when it wasn't popular. Sometime she stood alone but she did it with conviction. Joey may not have had a fat checkbook, but she had a huge heart stuffed with the love of the many dogs she rescued over the years. Joey, until we meet again, I will continue your work. Thank you for being my mentor and friend. ELIZABETH BERRY: Joey was an extraordinary rescue mentor to so many of us for so many years that it is difficult to imagine Airedale rescue without her now. Airedale Terrier Rescue of Virginia would never have happened without her constant encouragement and support. When Joey said, "You need to start a group in Virginia," it had to happen. Like an Airedale, Joey didn't take "no" for an answer. I have, at times, wondered if she was not really an Airedale in human form! The depth of her knowledge of the breed and in the care, evaluation and placement of rescue Airedales was unsurpassed. Her perseverance and willingness to go the extra mile for the dogs every time gave all of us the model we needed to do this work, even though many of us felt that we sometimes fell short of the standards she set. Whenever I needed to discuss a dog or an Airedale rescue situation, Joey always made time to listen, because nothing was more important than Airedale rescue and mentoring volunteers. Joey's creation, National Airedale Rescue, became an example for breed rescue groups everywhere to follow. Godspeed to the Bridge, Joey, mentor and friend - we will miss you. BARBARA CURTISS: There are no words I can add to the beautiful tributes I have been reading from so many of you. Every word is so true. Joey was a model, a heroine, a force to be dealt with. Even those who never met her personally surely know about this leader of Airedale Rescue. She is really a legend. Now she's up there directing traffic at the Rainbow Bridge . . . we'll all have her to answer to when we see her again! Godspeed to the Bridge, Joey, mentor and friend - we will miss you. I know she has had her own battle to wage in the past couple of years, and I want to thank those who rallied around her . . . she was not alone. Thank you, especially Cindy; you were there for her. MARY GADE: My Sweet Friend of so many years ago . . . now gone. I believe Joey was greeted and loved by many, many Airedales yesterday. I, too, have tears today. SUE FORRESTER, Australia: There are particular people who shine a light that is so powerful it reaches to all the dark places in the world. Joey Fineran will always remain one of those special light&&45;shiners, and shining lights. Those of us lucky enough to have met her could never forget her gentleness, charm, kindness, courtesy and consideration within the human sphere, but her adoration of and love for Airedales (with a capital 'A') surpasses even those qualities. If the world were full of Joey Finerans, what an even more splendid and true light would be shining in dark corners. We can only imagine the welcome she is receiving now, from myriad Rescue Airedales and other souls, across that Bridge. Travel safely and well, Joey. Your light is without peer; your candle and star burn forever. PATRICIA YARNOT: Joey was a special person. DELIA HARDIE: Joey meant so much not only to the Airedales that she helped, but to all of us who benefited from her wisdom and advice. Cindy, I agree wholeheartedly with what Elizabeth said and I join her in thanking you for being there for Joey through all of those difficult days when the rest of us could only pray for her. There is a sadness in Airedale rescue over the loss of our friend and mentor, Joey Fineran. BECKY PRESTON: Joey will be sorely missed (and I bet she is already wondering what all this fuss is about). BOBBI PROCYK: I've lost a dear friend and so have the Airedales. ELIZABETH BERRY: I love Barbara Curtiss' image of Joey directing traffic at the Bridge . . . I am sure she is there now with Bill, healthy and whole, surrounded by the many grateful Airedales she helped, cared for and loved. Requiescat in pace, Joey; we will miss you, but will continue to be inspired for the example you set for us. FRAN & BRYANT LUBBS: I was saddened to hear of Joey's passing. I adopted my Shayna through her in 1996. Shayna was my second rescued 'dale. I would drive from Doylestown to Upper Black Eddy to have both my girls groomed. Joey would drive them back to me at the end of the day. She was a wonderful lady, a friend to all animals - not just the 'dales in her life. I still have the poem she wrote when we adopted Shayna and a wonderful picture of our girl with Bill while she was being fostered. We have since then adopted three other Airedales. God Speed, Joey MARIANNE ANZALDO: I am so sorry to hear of Joey's passing. She played a special part in our lives, both for placing in a wonderful home an Airedale (Tori) I was unable to manage years ago when I found myself a single mother, but also in helping bring to us the most crazy, wonderful, loving creature we have ever experienced - Muggsy (Magnolia Belleterra). I am sure they are both bowing at Rainbow Bridge in honor and gratitude of JoeyÍs tireless efforts with Airedale Rescue, and especially on their behalf. MAUREEN SCOTT, Canada: Joey was one of my very favorite people. She used some of my writings off and on and I had dinner with her last time I was at Montgomery. A delightful and caring woman. LORA OLIVER: I am deeply saddened by the news. ROBIN & CHRIS COLMAN: Chris and I are so saddened to learn of Joey's death; she facilitated the adoption of our second Airedale, and we considered her a friend and mentor. Please let us know if there is a fund or charity to which we can contribute in her memory. A TRIBUTE TO JOEY These Pages Constructed by . . . Click on the card to email me ©1996-2015 All rights reserved Updated 18 MARCH 2015
If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.
PLEASE LIGHT A CANDLE
Cindy Johnstonbaugh writes:
It is with great sadness that I inform you that Joey passed away March 4, 2015 at 6:15 p.m. Joey would have been 75 on March 11.
Recently she experienced several medical setbacks. She was hospitalized after having a heart attack, released, and then readmitted for gallstones. The surgery was successful, but unfortunately her kidneys stopped functioning. Her good friend Cheryl was with her and promised to care for Coby, Joey's remaining Airedale and heart dog, Joey nodded and smiled at that. They shared some prayers, her breathing tube was removed, and she peacefully slipped away.
Joey had all the best characteristics of the Airedales she knew, loved, and had helped since 1975 when a friend asked her to help place an Airedale puppy.
Thousands of Airedales needing assistance have literally passed through her hands as she comforted & groomed them to perfection. In 1990, Joey was instrumental in encouraging the Airedale Terrier Club of America to take a more active role in Airedale Rescue.
The ATCA agreed to set up an Adoption Committee if she would chair it, which she did for five years. That was the beginning of the incredible Airedale Rescue Network we all believe in and support today. We current volunteers, and those who follow us, must continue her life's mission to find loving homes for all Airedales in need.
There is a hole in the world tonight, but may we find comfort thinking of her welcome at the Rainbow Bridge and being reunited with her beloved husband Bill.
[See our fundraiser for Joey's new shower and updates HERE]
RAINBOW BRIDGE FOR RESCUERS
Unlike most days at Rainbow Bridge, this day dawned cold and gray, damp as a swamp and as dismal as could be imagined. All of the recent arrivals had no idea what to think, as they had never experienced a day like this before. But the animals who had been waiting for their beloved people knew exactly what was going on and started to gather at the pathway leading to The Bridge to watch.
It wasn't long before an elderly animal came into view, head hung low and tail dragging. The other animals, the ones who had been there for while, knew what his story was right away, for they had seen this happen far too often.
He approached slowly, obviously in great emotional pain, but with no sign of injury or illness. Unlike all of the other animals waiting at The Bridge, this animal had not been restored to youth and made healthy and vigorous again. As he walked toward The Bridge, he watched all of the other animals watching him. He knew he was out of place here and the sooner he could cross over, the happier he would be. But, alas, as he approached The Bridge, his way was barred by the appearance of an Angel who apologized, but told him that he would not be able to pass. Only those animals who were with their people could pass over Rainbow Bridge.
With no place else to turn to, the elderly animal turned towards the fields before The Bridge and saw a group of other animals like himself, also elderly and infirm. They weren't playing, but rather simply lying on the green grass, forlornly staring out at the pathway leading to The Bridge. And so, he took his place among them, watching the pathway and waiting.
One of the newest arrivals at The Bridge didn't understand what he had just witnessed and asked one of the animals that had been there for a while to explain it to him.
"You see, that poor animal was a rescue. He was turned in to rescue just as you see him now, an older animal with his fur graying and his eyes clouding. He never made it out of rescue and passed on with only the love of his rescuer to comfort him as he left his earthly existence. Because he had no family to give his love to, he has no one to escort him across The Bridge."
The first animal thought about this for a minute and then asked, "So what will happen now?" As he was about to receive his answer, the clouds suddenly parted and the gloom lifted. Approaching The Bridge could be seen a single person and among the older animals, a whole group was suddenly bathed in a golden light and they were all young and healthy again, just as they were in the prime of life.
"Watch, and see", said the second animal. A second group of animals from those waiting came to the pathway and bowed low as the person neared. At each bowed head, the person offered a pat on the head or a scratch behind the ears. The newly-restored animals fell into line and followed her towards The Bridge. They all crossed The Bridge together.
"What happened?"
"That was a rescuer. The animals you saw bowing in respect were those who found new homes because of her work. They will cross when their new families arrive. Those you saw restored were those who never found homes. When rescuers arrive, they are allowed to perform one final act of rescue. They are allowed to escort those poor animals that they couldn't place on earth across The Rainbow Bridge."
-- Author Unknown
MARE MOORE, Canada: I didn't know Joey personally but her example shone so brightly one could not help but notice. Although she may now have lost her physical battle, her battle to save Airedales in need carries on as her loving spirit continues to guide & encourage those who rescue as she herself did so well in life.
My mind's eye can see the many wagging tails that greeted Joey as she performed her final act of rescue and helped those 'dales that weren't able to before, to cross o'er the RB.
doG speed Joey to your well-deserved rest!
SANDE MANCINI: Tis a SAD day indeed for all who knew her and the Airedale Kingdom. She is at peace now, no more suffering and I am sure she had peace of mind when she passed, knowing her beloved Airedale would be well cared for. I will light a candle tonight in her memory.
BETTE & BILL LEYDEN: Words cannot describe how I feel. Joey was taken from us way too soon. It was a pleasure to have known her for the seven years that I did.
CHRISTINE SHEFFER: I've had many friends and mentors in rescue. People like Chris Halvorson & Liz Mattison encouraged Tim & me to lend a hand. This led me to meeting Joey. Joey, the human lady with an Airedale heart. They say people come into your life for a reason and this is very true of Joey. She helped me fine tune my skill with lively conversation and debate. She and I had many of these spirited conversations -l always in a respectful way. She was right sometimes and I think I was right sometimes. In the end, we learned from each other. (Well, I probably learned more from her.) When I was president of National Airedale Rescue she stood quietly by my side and gave sage advice. I didn't really understand how much I learned until later. I truly believe that when other groups look to National Airedale Rescue for a blueprint on how to do rescue right, it is because Joey gave us such a strong foundation. It is no exaggeration that the Airedale Rescue organization that we have built is thanks to her efforts and those of her supporters in the early days - rescue wasn't popular then but it was still right and ethical.
My heart hurts tonight.
Joey spoke Airedale with 100% expertise. She understood dogs in a way most people do not. She would be the first to tell you that she understood the Airedales far better than she understood most people. Joey had no tolerance for people who were unjust in their treatment of dogs or of people in need. She was willing to take a stand and do what she believed to be right and ethical even when it wasn't popular. Sometime she stood alone but she did it with conviction. Joey may not have had a fat checkbook, but she had a huge heart stuffed with the love of the many dogs she rescued over the years. Joey, until we meet again, I will continue your work. Thank you for being my mentor and friend.
ELIZABETH BERRY: Joey was an extraordinary rescue mentor to so many of us for so many years that it is difficult to imagine Airedale rescue without her now. Airedale Terrier Rescue of Virginia would never have happened without her constant encouragement and support. When Joey said, "You need to start a group in Virginia," it had to happen. Like an Airedale, Joey didn't take "no" for an answer. I have, at times, wondered if she was not really an Airedale in human form!
The depth of her knowledge of the breed and in the care, evaluation and placement of rescue Airedales was unsurpassed. Her perseverance and willingness to go the extra mile for the dogs every time gave all of us the model we needed to do this work, even though many of us felt that we sometimes fell short of the standards she set.
Whenever I needed to discuss a dog or an Airedale rescue situation, Joey always made time to listen, because nothing was more important than Airedale rescue and mentoring volunteers. Joey's creation, National Airedale Rescue, became an example for breed rescue groups everywhere to follow.
Godspeed to the Bridge, Joey, mentor and friend - we will miss you.
BARBARA CURTISS: There are no words I can add to the beautiful tributes I have been reading from so many of you. Every word is so true. Joey was a model, a heroine, a force to be dealt with. Even those who never met her personally surely know about this leader of Airedale Rescue. She is really a legend. Now she's up there directing traffic at the Rainbow Bridge . . . we'll all have her to answer to when we see her again!
I know she has had her own battle to wage in the past couple of years, and I want to thank those who rallied around her . . . she was not alone. Thank you, especially Cindy; you were there for her.
MARY GADE: My Sweet Friend of so many years ago . . . now gone. I believe Joey was greeted and loved by many, many Airedales yesterday. I, too, have tears today.
SUE FORRESTER, Australia: There are particular people who shine a light that is so powerful it reaches to all the dark places in the world.
Joey Fineran will always remain one of those special light&&45;shiners, and shining lights. Those of us lucky enough to have met her could never forget her gentleness, charm, kindness, courtesy and consideration within the human sphere, but her adoration of and love for Airedales (with a capital 'A') surpasses even those qualities.
If the world were full of Joey Finerans, what an even more splendid and true light would be shining in dark corners.
We can only imagine the welcome she is receiving now, from myriad Rescue Airedales and other souls, across that Bridge.
Travel safely and well, Joey. Your light is without peer; your candle and star burn forever.
PATRICIA YARNOT: Joey was a special person.
DELIA HARDIE: Joey meant so much not only to the Airedales that she helped, but to all of us who benefited from her wisdom and advice.
Cindy, I agree wholeheartedly with what Elizabeth said and I join her in thanking you for being there for Joey through all of those difficult days when the rest of us could only pray for her.
There is a sadness in Airedale rescue over the loss of our friend and mentor, Joey Fineran.
BECKY PRESTON: Joey will be sorely missed (and I bet she is already wondering what all this fuss is about).
BOBBI PROCYK: I've lost a dear friend and so have the Airedales.
ELIZABETH BERRY: I love Barbara Curtiss' image of Joey directing traffic at the Bridge . . . I am sure she is there now with Bill, healthy and whole, surrounded by the many grateful Airedales she helped, cared for and loved.
Requiescat in pace, Joey; we will miss you, but will continue to be inspired for the example you set for us.
FRAN & BRYANT LUBBS: I was saddened to hear of Joey's passing. I adopted my Shayna through her in 1996. Shayna was my second rescued 'dale. I would drive from Doylestown to Upper Black Eddy to have both my girls groomed. Joey would drive them back to me at the end of the day. She was a wonderful lady, a friend to all animals - not just the 'dales in her life. I still have the poem she wrote when we adopted Shayna and a wonderful picture of our girl with Bill while she was being fostered. We have since then adopted three other Airedales.
God Speed, Joey
MARIANNE ANZALDO: I am so sorry to hear of Joey's passing. She played a special part in our lives, both for placing in a wonderful home an Airedale (Tori) I was unable to manage years ago when I found myself a single mother, but also in helping bring to us the most crazy, wonderful, loving creature we have ever experienced - Muggsy (Magnolia Belleterra). I am sure they are both bowing at Rainbow Bridge in honor and gratitude of JoeyÍs tireless efforts with Airedale Rescue, and especially on their behalf.
MAUREEN SCOTT, Canada: Joey was one of my very favorite people. She used some of my writings off and on and I had dinner with her last time I was at Montgomery. A delightful and caring woman.
LORA OLIVER: I am deeply saddened by the news.
ROBIN & CHRIS COLMAN: Chris and I are so saddened to learn of Joey's death; she facilitated the adoption of our second Airedale, and we considered her a friend and mentor. Please let us know if there is a fund or charity to which we can contribute in her memory.
A TRIBUTE TO JOEY
These Pages Constructed by . . .
Click on the card to email me
©1996-2015 All rights reserved Updated 18 MARCH 2015