Artie took his last ride Monday morning. The poor guy had cancer, with extensive tumors. I didn't get to say goodbye. I was out of town when he declined precipitously. Vic took him for his last ride by herself - kudos to her for her courage and compassion. I wish I had been home.
Artie and his littermates (Townes, Levon, and Smokey) are special to us because Vic rescued their pregnant mother, and we were present when they were born. We watched them grow into cats over the years. They have been 4 of the many joyful gifts in our lives.
I took this picture a few minutes after they were born. Artie is the tiny orange lump of fur.
Townes was Artie's favorite plaything.
Artie and Townes were close to each other throughout his life. When the cats were out lounging, you could count on those two being together.
This is the last picture I have of him, from the day before I left for Boston. He was sick and had stopped grooming himself, but he was still moving around and eating without apparent pain. He still purred loudly when I held him and petted him. Rest in Peace little guy. I miss you.