Memorial

*This obituary was written some time before Riff’s passing. The age indicated was aspirational. He was 13 when he passed. Riffraff James, founding member of the James Family Singers, has died. He was 32. Riffraff was born somewhere, and as a puppy was transported from that storied place to Appleton, WI by Saving Paws animal rescue. During his journey, Riff lost his mother and all but one of his littermates to parvo, but Riffraff prevailed. He was lovingly cared for and named by shelter staff before being adopted by his human mama and papa, who drove a very long way in the freezing cold to meet him. They were most definitely not disappointed by the scruffy, skinny, nervous 5-month-old pup who was waiting for them at the PetSmart. The long journey home, notable for a combination of copious drooling, sub-zero temperatures and tapeworms, is among his humans’ happiest memories. Once home, Riffraff demonstrated curiosity, engagement and a penchant for learning new things. He excelled at doggy school, ultimately earning his Canine Good Citizen certificate for his outstanding behavior, some of which he retained in subsequent years. Riffraff grew into a handsome, happy, clever and forthright dog who made an impression on all who met him. He will be remembered for his many tricks, including playing dead, saying please and knowing what a dog says. Notably, true to his personality, Riffraff also trained his humans to exclaim “Tadaaaahhhhh!” upon command. Riff will also be remembered for his bravery; he was willing to risk all for the protection of home and family, barking with great potency at any bad actors who might approach, pass or maybe even think about passing what he knew to be rightfully his. In his youth, Riff could play a fierce, growlsome game of tug and composed great, discordant squeaky toy concertos. He was a terrier who knew exactly what he wanted and on what schedule, and to this end he was a persistent and highly effective self-advocate. Riffraff was, above all things, a very, very good boy who was deeply loved by the humans who had the incredible good fortune to share his life with him. He was their Puppyman and their Babyboy, their MuffinHead and their MuttonChop. He was their shaggy, whip-smart, bright-eyed prince, and they adored him. Riffraff James is survived by his lifelong companion and frequent collaborator, Rinty Mae James, with whom he shared all manner of quests, travels and questionable decisions. He is also survived by his feline housemates, Zhunin, Russell Anne and WullyBear, who, if they are being perfectly honest, will not especially miss his daily presence in their lives. Finally, he is survived by his Mama and Papa, Sarah and Jed James, who loved this intelligent, beautiful and singular dog beyond all measure. They are deeply grieving his loss and will miss him always. In lieu of flowers, please, if you are so inclined, make a small donation to the animal rescue or pet food bank of your choice. If you are not so inclined, send some good thoughts and/or prayers to Riffraff’s growly, serious, soaring little soul as it circles back into the ether.

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