Monday, August 24, 2009

The Best Cat That Ever Was!

Buddy Lee Vincent Wright


Sept 2, 1992 - Aug 24, 2009



My best little friend for the past 17 years finally gave up the fight this morning. Buddy was the best cat that ever was. We got Buddy when I was a sophomore in high school. He was a gift for my sister from her date for a dance. I still remember seeing that little fur ball come running at me for the first time. He had the cutest little face and the best personality. He always knew when someone did not like cats and made it his mission to change their mind. He worked his magic on my dad who eventually gave him his name. I think we were considering the name Bear or something like that but my dad said, "no, this guy is a little Buddy!" Though he was technically my sisters cat, I was attached to him like my own. When I got engaged to be married, I had a moment of cold feet and started to get very homesick. My sister walked in and said, "I was going to save this for your wedding day, but I want you to have Buddy!" That solved it, I knew if Buddy could come with me, I could make it through anything. Ryan had to bribe our landlord $100 to let us bring the cat but I would have paid 100 times that, it was well worth it. I credit Buddy for saving my life on several occasions. He just knew me and knew when to force himself on my lap and make his presence known.

Buddy endured his own challenges. It took him several years to win over Ryan's love. Along with that fight came many assisted trips down the stairs, into walls, off couches, etc. He had his whiskers cut, tape on his paws, attempted double back flips. Most people that entered our home wanted nothing to do with Buddy. There were those who refused to come to the house because we had a cat. They never understood what a magnificent, loyal friend he was. That little animal was better to me than most humans could ever dream of. I am certain Buddy endured it all to be there for me. That cat loved me so much!!!

Buddy has not been himself these past few months. He could not be the cat he was used to being and it was hard to watch. Our neighbors here in Iowa fell in love with Buddy immediately and tried to help nurse him back to health. They came to us last night and said they did not think Buddy was going to make it through the night. I had Ryan go bring him home. I laid by him on the couch all night. He gave up his fight around 5am this morning. Buddy was a part of my life for more than half my life to this point. I will miss him everyday! We love you Buddy!

15 comments:

Barnes Family said...

Oh Tifany that makes me so sad. I'm so sorry that he is gone. Buddy was such a sweetie. He would always come and say hello and get a scratch when I came to your house. I love that he was a gift from my cousin Troy to Nikki. I will miss seeing him when I come over to your house. We love you Buddy Lee we will miss you very much.

Darice said...

Such a sweet story! Tifany I hope you are okay- I love that your neighbors are taking care of you and your family. I certainly miss you all!

It's all about Family! said...

I'm so sorry Tifany that Buddy is gone. I know how much you loved him. What a nice tribute you have written about him. I'm glad you were able to be with him when he passed away. We love you and all your little family.

Jaimie said...

Oh, how sad. I'm sorry you lost your cat Buddy. That was a beautiful Tribute you wrote about him.

Wendy said...

Tif,

I'm so sorry about Buddy! He was the best cat that ever was - I can still hear the purring and noises that he used make.

My love to you!

Bridgette said...

I am so sorry to hear he passed away. Your words made me want to sock Jeff for his complains of allergy eyes. He just lovingly put up with all the torment kids bring (mine included). I am sorry & hope you are doing well.

Melanie said...

Tif,
I am so sorry! What a great friend and pet he was to you. He was just as lucky to have you in his life as you were to have him in yours. After all, I am sure you saved his life many times from John as well. Thank goodness for memories and all of the good ones you can cherish of buddy. Love you Tif! Imagine receiving a long distance hug from me right now!

Shelbee said...

I'm really sorry, Tifany. I love what you wrote and it got me all teary-eyed. It's good that you have so many good memories. Those always help.

Unknown said...

"The Best Cat That Ever Was!" is an understatement. He was such a big part of our family for such a long time and so very much a part of your life - a good part. I will remember him with such fondness and longing. I loved him so much and will miss him. He'll be waiting for all of you(us). I'll bet he and Baby are having a ball! Grandma has her hands full! I love you all! Many hugs and kisses!

Stacey Wright said...

John would not be proud of me that I cried reading about your Buddy. Really, I am so sorry he is gone. Love you!

bybeez said...

I remember Buddy! So sorry you lost him! Tears for you and your family! Love your guts, Dee

Nik said...

On my sweet buddy! Thank you for loving him like he deserved to be loved. He loved you like you deserve to be too. I knew when I saw him back in June that it wouldn't be long. He lived a long, happy life, though. Are you all hanging in there okay?

sgilgen said...

I'm sorry to hear about Buddy. I know you have worried about him for awhile.

The Stimpson Family said...

So hard to loose a friend - even if it is an animal. I hope you are doing ok.

Kelly and Megan said...

That was so sweet! It was like reading a kitty obituary. Buddy was a good cat. He had to be a good sport to let my kids (okay, just Katelyn) pull his tail and rip his hair out. I hope you are doing better now.