In Loving Memory

Merlin got his wings at 7:45 tonight, September 16, 2003 and is on his way to the Rainbow Bridge. Being FIV+ and having multiple allergies didn't seem to affect his personality much at all. He had such a good, sweet nature. Merlin kept a low profile and was non-confrontational but he loved a ringside seat when an occasional squabble broke out amongst the others.

We met on a cold November evening back in 1994 while in my parking lot. Merlin had a hole in his side the size of two fists. I knew then what my mission was. Some time later I learned that he was a 'throw away'. By that Spring, he felt that I was worthy of his trust - he brought his family to meet me. And he kept bringing them. He was the best 'Dad' I ever had the pleasure to have met. Of all things, I watched him teach his kittens to go up when hiding. Something I never considered while looking for him those ice cold nights. I'd like to think that we were in tune to one another. I know better now. It was all Merlin. He was the one that knew when I needed him. He was the one that 'appeared' in the alley in the middle of the night behind the cop who asked what I was doing and I said "tracking kittens". He said he was tracking me and he didn't see kittens. But when he turned around, there was Merlin, sitting a comfortable distance away, but there nevertheless.

And that is how it was with him, he was always there. And now he's not. When he left me he took a big piece of my heart but he gave me all of his.

Merlin will be loved and missed for all time by his Mom and family.