Dear Copper,

You probably don't remember me. We only met one or twice when you were still just a pup. I just wanted to tell you a quick story:

A couple years ago, I was on the verge of getting my first dog ever. I was heading down to San Diego to meet up with your dad and a bunch of friends for a Padres game. Before I drove down, I made a little pit stop to meet my soon-to-be pup.

To be honest, when I met Kogi, it still hadn't hit me that I just met my new life companion. Of course it was a very special day for me; it just hadn't registered with me yet.

When I made it to the Padres game, I saw your dad. And dude, let me tell you…I will never forget the look on your dad's face when he congratulated me for getting Kogi. Your dad's face lit up as if he just found out he was having a baby. It was that very moment I realized that unconditional love for me was right around the corner, just a few weeks away.

I've known a lot of dog owners in my life, but I've never met one as big a dog lover as your dad. Just by the way he was so genuinely happy for me; the way he always posted pictures of you and talked about you; the way he always included you in his work and all of his relationships…Copper, I never really got to know you, but the unconditional love between you and your dad became everything I aspire for with me and Kogi.

Rest in peace, you furry little angel.