IT IS with deep regret and heartfelt sadness that I write these few words in memory of one of my oldest and dearest friends, Margaret Marsh of Kingswinford, who sadly and so suddenly passed away last week.

There will, I know, be many people far and wide, but particularly here in the Midlands, who will be greatly saddened and shocked to hear of her very sudden death.

Margaret had been ‘in dogs’ for more than 30 years, and was loved and respected by us all. She was an extremely knowledgeable lady and always ready to help others in so many ways. She had a close association with the Pensnett Dog Training Society, where everyone was made to feel welcome, however ‘new’ they were to the dog scene.

The Dudley Metropolitan Dog Show Society were blessed for many years by her catering abilities at their huge Open shows, and over the years she has raised many many thousands of pounds for charities for which she worked so tirelessly.

The world is certainly a better place for Margaret; however, her world was shattered a few weeks ago when her dear husband Cliff suffered a severe heart attack which culminated in a triple bypass just a few weeks ago, and who has only just himself returned home to recuperate. A few days later his beloved wife Margaret slipped quietly away, mercifully without pain, but such a shock.
I am sure that both Cliff and their children, Sandra, Kate and Andrew, must be devastated as indeed we all are who knew this wonderfully kind and generous lady who was everyone’s friend.
Dogdom has lost a very special lady, who was greatly loved and respected.

Those of you with such a friend, cherish her with care,
For you will never know the loss, until you see the empty chair.

I am sure many OUR DOGS readers will be shocked and saddened at Margaret’s passing, and our sympathy and love will go out to Cliff and the family at this sad time in their grief and sudden loss.

Although she was a very modest person, I personally feel that we have lost one of the true ‘greats’ in our wonderful world of dogs.

As yet, no details of the funeral arrangements have been announced.

Doreen Reynolds

Margaret Marsh passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in the early hours of Friday morning 9th December 2005.

I first met her in the 70s when she first came to see a litter of puppies I had, sired by Ch Starmark Sweet Talkin Guy, a flashy red and white male was her choice, he was Mowgli Stylistic, he won well for his novice owner including the Green Star at St Patricks Ch Show under the legendary Gwen Broadley.

She purchased a second male later on, this time a brindle, sired by Ch Tyegarth Famous Grouse, this was Mowgli Midshipman, he was too won well for her. Margaret's greatest ability was as an organiser, and for many years she raised many thousands of pounds for worthwhile causes, she was a great listener and was always there to offer advice and support, a valued committee member at the Dudley Metropolitan Show, her catering abilities and warm smile were always greatly appreciated on show days.

I was privileged to have her as a close friend, she will be missed by many in the midlands. She once said to me, there are dog lovers and there are dog owners, I shall always be a dog lover, so typical of Margaret.

To Cliff, Sandra, Kate and Andrew, and her grandchildren, you are all in our thoughts at this sad time. Boxers as a breed have lost one of its loyalist supporters. Funeral arrangements have yet to be finalised.

Joe Smith