Josie Faas

In Loving Memory of Our Josie Girl ❤️

October 21, 2014 – October 11, 2026

Some dogs come into your life and leave paw prints on your heart, and then there are those rare, once-in-a-lifetime dogs who become a part of your very soul. Josie was one of those dogs.

Josie came into our lives in April 2016, thanks to our son, who introduced us to her because she was in one of his training classes and he knew her owner was looking to rehome her. We decided to give her a trial run over Easter weekend, and from that moment on, she never left. I guess you could say she knew she was home, because we certainly knew she belonged with us.

She was my Josie Girl, my shadow, my constant companion, and the ultimate Velcro dog. Wherever I went, she went. She didn't just want to be near me; she wanted to be wherever I was. We could leave her untied in the yard at our campsite, even when other people and dogs walked by, and she would never wander away from our side. She didn't need a leash to keep her close. All she needed was us.

Josie was, without a doubt, the best dog we have ever had. She was wonderful with other dogs, children, visitors, and pretty much anyone who crossed her path. Everyone was a friend, and she seemed to understand the world in a way that went beyond being a dog. We never had to teach her to stay close, stay off the furniture, keep from jumping on people, or get along with other animals. She just seemed to know. She was naturally well-behaved, gentle, loving, and so easy to have around that sometimes it felt like she understood more than most humans!

She was also a great traveler and went with us whenever she could. Whether we were camping, heading out on an adventure, or simply going about our day, she was happiest being included. Some days, she even got to hang out with me in my office. She didn't need anything fancy or exciting. As long as she was with her people, she was happy.

At night, her favorite place to sleep was in my chair, which was the one and only piece of furniture she ever claimed as her own. It was her special spot, and somehow, it just wouldn't have been right without her there.

Of course, Josie had her own little quirks, too! She had a definite interest in coffee, and every morning I had to guard my cup to keep her from sneaking a lick. She was also a big-time licker, especially when it came to bare legs. Our guests didn't always appreciate that particular display of affection, but it was just Josie being Josie! 😂

And then there was the frisbee. Oh, how she loved to play catch! She could spend hours in the backyard, dropping that frisbee at your feet over and over again until you finally gave in and threw it. She was relentless, and if you thought you were finished playing, she had other ideas. One more throw was always needed in Josie's world!

Those are the little things that make us smile through the tears now. The coffee cup we no longer have to guard. The bare legs that no longer get an unexpected bath. The frisbee sitting quietly in the yard. The chair that no longer holds our girl at night. The familiar footsteps and constant presence that once filled our home.

Josie passed away on October 11, 2026, just 10 days shy of her 12th birthday. We knew our time together wouldn't last forever, but knowing that doesn't make saying goodbye any easier. When a dog has been woven into nearly every part of your daily life, their absence is felt in a thousand little ways.

Our home feels different without her. We miss her presence, her companionship, her funny little habits, and the unconditional love she gave us every single day. We miss having our girl right beside us, following us from room to room, simply because being with us was where she wanted to be.

We were so lucky that our son brought Josie into our lives, and even luckier that what was supposed to be a trial weekend turned into more than 10 years of love, loyalty, laughter, and memories we will cherish forever.

Josie, you were so much more than a pet. You were family. You were my shadow, my companion, my Josie Girl. You made ordinary days better just by being there, and you gave us a kind of love that only a very special dog can give.

Thank you for choosing us, for staying close, for making us laugh, for being such a good girl, and for filling our lives with more love than you could ever have known.

You may no longer be following me from room to room, sleeping in my chair, or dropping your frisbee at my feet, but you will always have a place in our home and in our hearts.

Until we meet again, my sweet Josie Girl. You were loved beyond measure, and you will be missed more than words can ever say.

You were only a part of our lives, but to you, we were your whole life. And what a beautiful life we shared. ❤️🐾

We are also grateful for the wonderful job River Valley Pet Cremation Society did in taking care of us and our sweet Josie.

Sincerely,

Mark and Trincy Faas