Kelly Dygert

Kelly Dygert - As I'll always remember her - enthusiastic, encouraging, & supportive

I don't usually make blog entries like this; but, Kelly is a special soul. Kelly passed peacefully from this earthwalk early Thursday morning May 23, 2013 after a very brave battle with cancer. I took my dogs out one by one and gave each a training session and a bit of TLC with Kelly in my thoughts. She was not only a great person she was a gifted dog trainer.

Kelly and I met by accident. I was going to a herding clinic with Lynn Leach in Fairbanks. The arena was close to Kelly's place and somehow someone connected me with her as a possible place to stay. Kelly allowed me to use her brand new Chalet motor home. Ordinarily, July in Fairbanks would have been a great time for my tent; but being tired and stressed, I'm sure glad I opted for Kelly's generous offer. During my stay it FROZE and all the crops died. There was frost on the car in the morning. I would have been miserable in a tent.

Kelly invited me into her home and introduced me to all her dogs. She told me of times past in Colorado when she had a blue heeler and worked on ranches there. Kelly had a unique sense of humor and a optimistic way of seeing things. She was generous, thoughtful, and always thinking of ways to include people or help.

If I ran into a training issue or wanted to share insight, Kelly was the first person I talked to. We shared a common bond with dogs. But, Kelly was also my inspiration. I often asked myself "what would Kelly do?"

She, like my husband, worked in a laboratory. I understood her work and workplace. We could often speak without words. She was always kind, supportive, gracious, and enthusiastic.

Usually when someone passes we get caught up in our loss.  Yes. This world lost someone very special; but we gained so much from her life and spirit that Kelly will never really die. I can hear her voice and see her smile. I know I'll see her in the tracking field and at dog shows. Kelly will always be with me.