Bernie

Sir Bernabe Williams – named after Yankees great Bernie Williams – passed away peacefully Aug. 4 with his family by his side. Affectionately known as Bernie, the Teacup Poodle lived to 17 years old.

Bernie was beloved by parents Chad and Amanda Packard, who are residents of Middleburg Heights. He recently was preceded in death by brother Jack — a Beagle who lived to 10 years old. Bernie was born in Kansas before he was flown to Pennsylvania to join his new family in 2007.

He loved car rides and especially stops at drive thru restaurants, as it meant Bernie would find a pup cup, a hamburger or some other special treat. While in Pennsylvania, Bernie loved to watch the boats float by at the marina and have barbecues with Mom at the park.

The Teacup Poodle slept in bed with the family his entire life. When Chad joined the family 11 years ago, Bernie began sleeping in the middle of the bed to assert his position as Mom’s favorite. Bernie’s first best friend was Harley – a German Shepherd who lived with his Grandparents – though he typically preferred cats to dogs.

Bernie was a great companion. He stayed in dog-friendly hotels during work trips with his Mom when she worked in the indirect channel of Verizon Wireless. Bernie was not one for dog toys – except one, a miniature lamb chop that he cherished.

*The family would like to thank Mr. Nicholas Marlow for kindly writing this beautiful memorandum.