About - Contact - Archives | Great Falls Bloggers - Great Falls Pix | Subscribe!





Joshua The Dachschund

June 20th, 2008 · 38 Comments

Finally got a picture of Joshua, courtesy of Shane – thanks.

Josh At Gibson Park.jpgI want to thank you for giving Josh’s friends a venue to post comments about him, we are all grieving his passing in our own way. He was very special. I finally found a picture I took of him a couple of years ago when I took him to Gibson Park for a walk one summer day. Its not the best, but its the only one I have of him.

And I decided to edit the comment from Chris in the original Joshua entry; it was mean-spirited and causing unnecessary grief for the folks who loved Josh.

UPDATE: comments on this entry have been closed; please leave any comments about Joshua in the RIP Joshua entry.

Possibly Related...

38 responses so far ↓

  • 1 Stewart // Jun 20, 2008 at 9:42 am

    My situation is a little different than everyone else who is posting a message here. I haven’t stayed at the Triple Crown (yet), and I never met the little chap, Josh.

    I’m coming to Great Falls this weekend for the rodeo and was searching the internet for a place to stay. I noticed the Triple Crown had good reviews on several travel websites so I decided to book a room with them.

    Several people had mentioned in their reviews the motels mascot and I was looking forward to meeting him. My eighty year old mother owns a dachshund. When I made my reservation I asked if I was speaking with the manager and if Josh would be around this weekend so I could meet him. She was quite upset when she told me he had passed away two weeks ago. I felt so bad for her, she seemed like a nice lady who really loved her little dog.

    I found this blog when I was searching for other things to do this weekend while I’m in Great Falls. Nice job to whoever runs it.

    Sorry I’m not going to have the opportunity to meet Josh. He sounded like he was a nice little chap.

  • 2 Paula // Jun 21, 2008 at 10:03 am

    We were tired when we checked in last night, but we looked for Josh when we went by the front desk on our way to our room. We thought it was odd we didn’t see him or his things. It seemed he was always on duty whenever we stayed at the Triple Crown before.

    When we came through the lobby this morning for coffee we asked the young lady behind the desk where Josh was last night and she told us he had passed away several weeks ago – how sad. My kids really enjoyed being allowed behind the front desk to pet him and give him one of his chicken jerky treats – he was such a nice boy.

    The desk clerk told me about this website that people were leaving messages about Josh. It took me forever to find it this morning, but we have such fond memories of Josh that I wanted to leave a few words about him.

    He was so sweet the way he would take his treat from my kids hands, so gentle. And, they would scream with delight when he would wag his tail at them and eat his treat with such gusto. Thank you, Josh, for bringing such joy to my kids whenever they saw you. My family will miss seeing you whenever we stay at the Triple Crown.

  • 3 Cheri // Jun 21, 2008 at 5:37 pm

    How is the woman who owned Josh ever going to get over his death? I remember how distraught she was a couple years ago when someone stole him and this whole town was in an uproar looking for him. Thank God he was returned to her then. If she was that upset then, I can’t imagine how she is feeling now.

    I don’t know his owner at all, and my only experience with Josh was seeing him prance around the downtown neighborhood on his daily walks. Such a friendly, lively little fellow. Would always wag his tail whenever I would stop and talk to him. Especially enjoyed seeing his various outfits, he seemed to have quite a wardrobe – I think he had more clothes than I do!

    My deepest sympathy to the staff of the Triple Crown, especially Josh’s owner.

  • 4 Les // Jun 22, 2008 at 12:31 pm

    So strange to check-in and not see Josh sitting majestically on his bed behind the front desk overseeing the operation of the Triple Crown. I had not heard he had recently passed away.

    For such a little guy, he was a huge presence in the motel. So cute the way he’d come into the lobby to greet me whenever I checked-in. Occasionally, Davidene would allow him to accompany me to my room if I was on the first floor. Josh would run down the hallway, and when I’d open the door to my room he’d run in. He’d spend a few minutes going over everything in the room, almost like he was making sure everything was in order. Then he’d run back to Davidene behind the frnt desk.

    The Triple Crown will never be the same without Josh … Rest In Peace.

    Now that I know about this blog, I’ll check it out before coming to Great Falls to see what’s going on around town. Nice job whoever runs it!

  • 5 Patti // Jun 23, 2008 at 10:29 pm

    I thought it was odd that I hadn’t seen Josh strolling through the downtown neighborhood with one of his many dog walkers. the last few weeks. Today I found out the reason. A co-worker told me she saw the signs in front of the Triple Crown announcing he had passed away.

    For those of us in the downtown area who became familiar with Josh during his walks, we’ll miss seeing him. He would invariably bring a smile to our faces – something we can all use more of these days.

    In a way, Josh’s spirit lives on through this blog. His friends needed some place to leave their condolences and we learned of this site, and what a wonderful site it is. I’m sure most of us who have visited here because of Josh will continue doing so in the future.

    Thanks, Josh, for the many smiles you brought us!

    (I didn’t know the best place to post my comment, so I left it in both sections)

  • 6 Christine // Jun 24, 2008 at 8:14 am

    So sad not seeing Joshua on his daily walks through the downtown neighborhood. My co-workers and I have missed seeing him. Like the previous poster said, he couldn’t help but bring a smile to your face.

    My deepest sympathy to the Triple Crown on the loss of their beloved mascot.

  • 7 James // Jun 25, 2008 at 11:36 pm

    I can’t believe my little buddy, Josh recently passed away. He was the world’s all time great little dog.

    And, that’s the thing about Josh. He didn’t know he was a little dog, he always had a big dog attitude. I think that’s why guys liked him, too.

    Of course, he was primarily a ladies man, oh how the girls used to love Josh. He was a regular babe magnet! Whenever I took him for a walk, I would always meet the best looking girls.

    I feel awful for everyone at the Triple Crown. I know I should go and pay my respects, but everyone is going to be so sad – I won’t know what to say. At times like this, sorry seems so inadequate.

    My condolences to the staff and guests at the Triple Crown. I can’t imagine how sad you must be over the loss of Josh.

  • 8 Heather // Jun 30, 2008 at 9:20 pm

    I was deeply saddened to hear of the recent passing of Joshua. My thoughts and prayers are with the staff of the Triple Crown Motor Inn, especially Davidene his owner.

    Joshua will be sadly missed but warmly remembered. What a ray of sunshine he was to all that saw him on his daily walks through the downtown area.

    Rest in peace, Josh!

  • 9 Cathy // Jul 2, 2008 at 3:44 pm

    After seeing Davidene twice (during check-in at the Triple Crown Motor Inn) since her beloved Joshua passed away, I truly believe that when he died, a piece of her died with him.

    She is still overwhelmed with grief. I think the only thing that gets her through the days is the promise that one day Joshua and she will meet again (maybe at the Rainbow Bridge).

    Rest in peace, Joshua, and God bless the staff of the Triple Crown, especially Davidene who loved him so.

  • 10 Tina // Jul 3, 2008 at 7:20 pm

    I am so sorry about the loss of your beloved mascot, Joshua.

    My darling cat, Gatsby, was hit by a car two nights ago and the pain is so terrible. I am having an awful time coping with the loss of my friend, but it is comforting to know that there are other people out there who understand how devastating the loss of an animal companion can be.

    May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared comfort you now and in the days ahead.

  • 11 Betty // Jul 4, 2008 at 9:27 am

    I met Joshua during my stays at the Triple Crown the last two years – what a delightful, fun-loving little boy! I’ve also gotten to know his owner, Davidene during that time.

    I saw her again this week when I checked in to spend the Fourth of July weekend in Great Falls. That’s when I learned my little friend, Josh passed away four weeks ago. She is still so sad over his passing, I hated seeing her that upset.

    I know its difficult for her to say goodbye to Joshua because she held him so dear to her heart. I hope and pray she finds comfort in the lifetime of fond memories they made together.

    RIP, JOSHUA!

  • 12 Betty // Jul 4, 2008 at 9:28 am

    I met Joshua during my stays at the Triple Crown the last two years – what a delightful, fun-loving little boy! I’ve also gotten to know his owner, Davidene during that time.

    I saw her again this week when I checked in to spend the Fourth of July weekend in Great Falls. That’s when I learned my little friend, Josh passed away four weeks ago. She is still so sad over his passing, I hated seeing her that upset.

    I know its difficult for her to say goodbye to Joshua because she held him so dear to her heart. I hope she finds comfort in the lifetime of fond memories they made together.

    RIP, JOSHUA!

  • 13 Jeanette // Jul 10, 2008 at 7:02 am

    Our animal friends teach us more than we could have expected and love us more than we could have hoped. That’s why we miss them more than we could have imagined.

    I can only imagine the depth of your sorrow at the loss of that darling little dog, Joshua. I so enjoyed watching him prance through the downtown neighborhood on his daily walks.

    To the staff and guests of the Triple Crown Motor Inn my deepest sympathy at this time of loss.

  • 14 Shane // Jul 11, 2008 at 1:20 pm

    Davidene: Tender thoughts and sweet memories… So sorry for the loss of your loyal friend, Joshua.

    May memories of the fun you shared bring you gentle comfort.

  • 15 Sarah // Jul 16, 2008 at 1:22 am

    Joshua had a larger than life personality in a handsome little twelve pound body. He was always in the middle of every activity at the Triple Crown Motor Inn, greeting everyone with a determined, intent look that said “I have something to say”. It was as if there was a human inside saying I need to come out and I have things to tell you.

    Josh had an indomitable spirit – clear about who he was and what he wanted. And, what he wanted most of all, Davidene, was to be near you. That will not change – ever. Although it may be difficult for you to understand now, Josh is still with you … he’s in your heart watching over you.

    I have always known you to be a strong and resourceful woman and I am sure your strength of character will help you cope at this difficult time.

    Please accept my sincere and deepest sympathy over the loss of your beloved Joshua.

  • 16 Peggy // Jul 17, 2008 at 9:52 pm

    Davidene: I am so sorry that Joshua passed away last month. Its hard to believe he’s been gone for almost two months.

    I know that Josh meant the world to you, and I know you miss him more than words can say – I miss him, too (everyone who knew and loved Josh misses him).

    I don’t know what to do for you during this horrible time, other than to offer my deepest sympathy and understanding.

  • 17 Jonathan // Jul 20, 2008 at 8:32 pm

    Davidene: As you comprehend the profound loss of Joshua, let yourself cry knowing each tear is a note of love rising to the heavens.

    Now, more than ever, lean on your friends for strength, and always remember how much you are cared about.

    Words cannot even begin to express my sorrow over Joshua’s recent passing.

    You are in my prayers.

  • 18 Ricky // Jul 21, 2008 at 4:14 pm

    Davidene:

    May your friends comfort you during your heart-wrenching grieving process over losing your darling, Joshua.

    May your faith uphold you, and loving memories heal your heart.

    With deepest sympathy.

  • 19 Kurt // Jul 21, 2008 at 7:36 pm

    Wishing you hope in the midst of sorrow, and
    comfort in the midst of pain.

    With heartfelt sympathy over your recent loss of your beloved, Joshua – the world’s greatest little dog, with a huge attitude and heart.

    RIP JOSHUA!

  • 20 Brenda // Jul 22, 2008 at 4:44 pm

    Davidene: You may not understand why sad things happen, such as your beloved Joshua unexpectedly passing away. But, may it somehow help you to know how much I care.

    Please know my loving thoughts embrace you during this sorrowful time.

    Your darling Joshua may be gone, but he will never be forgotten.

    RIP JOSHUA!

  • 21 Lori // Jul 23, 2008 at 12:38 am

    With heartfelt sympathy and understanding thoughts in this time of sadness. My heart is filled with sorrow, too over the recent passing of Joshua.

    With heartfelt condolences.

  • 22 Sandra // Jul 23, 2008 at 6:38 pm

    Davidene: May you take comfort in knowing a special little angel, Joshua, is watching over you.

    And, may the comfort of God help you during this difficult time.

    You are in my prayers.

  • 23 Suzette // Jul 23, 2008 at 10:48 pm

    Davidene: Please accept my sincere sympathy for the recent passing of your precious pup, Joshua. The earth certainly became a less loving place, when Josh earned his angel wings.

    Remember all the love the two of you shared for so many years, don’t concentrate on the last few months when Josh wasn’t himself. And, most importantly, know that he is with you every day.

    You and Joshua are in my thoughts and prayers.

  • 24 Blair // Jul 24, 2008 at 11:50 pm

    Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

    When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

    All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

    They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

    You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

    Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together….

  • 25 Tammy // Jul 25, 2008 at 11:40 pm

    How can I possibly express my sorrow and sadness at the death of your beloved Joshua?

    Josh was such a little character: his good heart, merry ways, and playful spirit while be a part of your life forever living within your memories for years to come.

    My deepest sympathy and heartfelt sorrow goes out to you during these very difficult times. I know you will miss Joshua terribly, and so will many others who had the good fortune of knowing him.

    RIP JOSHUA!

  • 26 Kevin // Jul 27, 2008 at 2:24 pm

    Davidene:

    Allow me to convey to you and your staff at the Triple Crown Motor Inn my sincere condolences for the loss of Joshua. In the hearts of all who knew him, his memory lives. May you find strength and comfort to help you through this time of sorrow.

    In the days and weeks to come, grief may cause you to find many of the routine tasks of life difficult to perform. It is during these times that I as your friend would be glad to help. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

  • 27 Jaclyn // Jul 27, 2008 at 8:08 pm

    I was extremely despaired to learn of your beloved Joshua’s death. He was a gentle, warm and loving little pup who was always ready to spread joy to anyone.

    I remember those days where I would come over to your house for dinner and how he would make me feel at home, and make me laugh all night with his crazy antics. Those were the days by which I will always remember Joshua.

    Please accept my sincerest sympathy.

  • 28 Brandon // Jul 28, 2008 at 7:39 pm

    Words seem inadequate to express the sadness I feel about the recent death of your beloved mascot, Joshua.

    As you grieve know that I am remembering you and honoring the memory of Josh.

    I am here to support you in your grieving process.

    With sincere sympathy.

  • 29 Ellen // Jul 29, 2008 at 8:32 pm

    Allow me to express my profound sympathy in your loss.

    As one of Joshua’s many dogsitters and walkers over the last ten years, I came to see him as a character, as a clown, and as a giver of unconditional love. He never gave less than unqualified acceptance of others – giving so much joy to all that knew him, and asking for nothing in return. Joshua will live forever in our minds and hearts.

    Should there be anything I, as your friend, can do to alleviate your grief and pain, please call at any time.

    RIP JOSHUA!

  • 30 Gordon // Jul 30, 2008 at 2:26 pm

    Davidene … The pain never truly goes away from losing someone as special as your little friend, Joshua. It just gets smaller and condensed, tucked away in a corner somewhere in the deep recesses of the heart. There it remains at a constant low level ache, which with time may be overridden.

    There may be times when a site, a smell, a place, or birthday will trigger your old memories of Joshua, and the intensity of the grief and loss will return again. These feelings will arrive without warning and can be just as painful making you feel as though Joshua just passed away.

    It is times like this that I most feel the physical distance that separates me from you; as much as I enjoy our correspondence, it would be so much better if I could convey my condolences in person. But at the very least I want you to know that I am out here and care and still waiting to welcome you back to Los Angeles where you belong.

    Please let me know if there is anything I can do.

  • 31 Justin // Jul 31, 2008 at 12:56 am

    Animal companions are truly special and Joshua was no exception. He was not only an animal companion to you, but I felt as if he allowed me to be part of his life in a very special way, too.

    He certainly treated me like I was a member of the “Joshua Family”, and I will always remember his playfulness, welcoming spirit, and loving kisses when I felt down.

    I will miss him dearly as I know you will.

  • 32 Jordan // Jul 31, 2008 at 7:16 pm

    Words can hardly come close to expressing what I feel for you… But even if we’re oceans apart, I want you to know that I am here for you with my heart open as I embrace you with solace in this ultimate moment of pain, loss and grief.

    We all miss Joshua, and the knowledge that you are trying to transition and transform into higher grounds and realms of being and consciousness gives us hope and calms our deepest fears and heart aches.

    My deepest sympathy!

  • 33 Jennifer // Aug 1, 2008 at 12:18 pm

    Davidene:

    I can only imagine how upset you are that Joshua died. He was always a special joy to you following you everywhere, providing you with many enjoyable hours of companionship, love and playfulness (oh, how he loved to play “Barney”) – what a joy he was to all that knew him.

    We are truly blessed to have known him and to be lucky enough to have been a member of the “Joshua Fan Club” – what a special, special little boy!

    I’ll miss that cute little guy too.

  • 34 Jeremy // Aug 2, 2008 at 12:46 am

    Davidene: When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight – Joshua! After all, as you said many times … Josh was the love of your life.

    Rejoice in your memories of him!

    RIP JOSHUA!

  • 35 Erica // Aug 2, 2008 at 11:00 pm

    I find it difficult to talk about Joshua, oh how I loved that little guy! It’s sad checking-into the Triple Crown and not seeing him on duty behind the front desk, or having him come out into the lobby to greet me … the motel isn’t the same without him. The spirit and soul of the Triple Crown died with Joshua, and the staff knows it.

    Davidene, you will miss Joshua, I know, and it is with the greatest sympathy that I post this short note to you in your time of sorrow.

  • 36 Angela // Aug 3, 2008 at 4:36 pm

    Dogs are like angels set upon this earth to guide us through thick and thin. Your beloved friend, Joshua was one of these angels who stood beside you throughout the years never asking for anything in return … well, except for an occasional chicken jerky strip or a rousing game of “Barney”.

    He will be sadly missed, but his companionship, kindness and unconditional love will be part of your spirit now as you go forward in your life.

    My deepest sympathy for your loss of your best friend, Joshua.

    RIP JOSHUA!

  • 37 Elizabeth // Aug 5, 2008 at 11:54 pm

    It is really difficult to find any words that are likely to be of comfort at this terrible time for you, Davidene.

    My deep condolences on your beloved Joshua’s’ death on June 3, 2008. All my prayers are with you and your staff at the Triple Crown Motor Inn that loved him, too.

  • 38 Cassie // Aug 8, 2008 at 2:48 pm

    So sad to check-in at the Triple Crown last night and learn their darling little mascot, Joshua recently passed away.

    I extend my heartfelt condolences to the staff of the Triple Crown over their loss. The motel will never be the same without him … Joshua is irreplaceable.

    RIP JOSHUA!