Letter: A tribute to Trooper

Trooper, the faithful German Shepherd superdog, passed away July 11, in the arms of owner Mary Jonikas and Dr. Dick Jones-Witthuhn of the Kinni Croix and River Falls Veterinary Clinic.

Trooper had a well-known history in River Falls, beginning when he made the news after being found by Gary Priebe and Adam Riley in 2002, in northern Minnesota. He had been shot and left for dead in a field.

Dr. Jones-Witthuhn operated on his shattered leg, reinforcing it with pins since it had been pierced through from one side to the other.

Trooper lived at the veterinary clinic during recovery, with loving care by Connie, Val and Gayle. He learned many things, like how to open locked doors and get along with cats.

Later he lived with Connie, where he practiced herding farm animals and being the alpha male among six other dogs.

He went on to stay at Buffalo Hill Ranch with Tom Peters, where he attempted to herd the buffalo from outside the fence on his three working legs.

After Tom’s death, he went to yet another home, with Mary and Tom Jonikas in Prescott.

Trooper made lots of friends and enjoyed many a dog treat on daily walks in the neighborhood. At the far point of the walk, Uncle Dave always had a treat for him.

He is survived by his loving owners, four grandchildren, and best pals Monte, Sunny, Gracie, recently deceased Bailey and many other friends.

In addition to dispensing kisses to twin babies, he was a valiant guardian of the bird feeder and scared many a squirrel. Best guesses at his age were 11-13, which seemed amazing considering his leg injury.

He was unstoppable and the best dog in the world. Trooper is dearly missed.

Tags: letters to the editor, opinion