My Best Friend And Constant Companion Has Departed

My best buddy, Frank, a dachshund, was with me for 15 1/2 years and died just last Sunday, Halloween. A nearly constant companion, we travelled together, put in many miles together, been through times good and bad together, we were truly "mates". He was with me at home and at work and all who met him cherished him. The condolences, cards, and flowers have been supportive but the hurt is immense and the sense of loss almost overwhelming.
Frank suffered from Cushing's disease for a couple of years but that did not slow him down. His vision deteriorated, but that did not slow him down.
To pay him tribute, I sat alone last evening and put some thoughts on paper to honor him. I will share this with you:

11/6/2010
Dear Frank:
Where ever you may be right now, I hope you are comfortable and not alone. You are not really alone because I am with you in spirit every moment of the day and night. We are still together, as we were for over 15 years.
You know how much I miss you; you know I can never forget what a loyal, understanding, loving, and tolerant friend you were. You were there in the happy times and the sad times, never faltering in your loyalty and love. We had such fun together over the years, seen so many places and things. From the day you were gathered up, a tiny bundle, from a house in Campbell, California when I probably first said, “I love you man” until just 5 days ago, when your little body had to say goodbye, we were hardly ever apart.
I am honored that you chose to be my pet. I am honored that your last breaths were taken upon my shoulders, where you belonged and always wanted to be. And you are forever welcome there. I am so sorry you had to go.
I see and smell reminders of you around the house, your house, my house, Denise’s house, and Jazzy’s house, our house. Denise misses you so very much also. And if you happen to run across Jazzy, tell her we still miss her and love her.
Life has changed down here, with you up there. But my memory of you, though it makes me aware and sad for the loss, is one of joy when it recalls our lives together.
If it is possible, where you are now, think good thoughts of me. I tried my best to give you a wonderful life and I think I did a good job, but believe me, you repaid me so many times over. I was so lucky to have had you in my life.
Many people, those fortunate enough to have met you, and those that only have heard about you, have honored your life by remembering you since you departed. You brought joy to many people, you comforted patients, frightened by the prospect of surgery, and you brought laughter to all with your quirks and antics. Storekeepers, motel managers, veterinarians, neighbors, anyone who came in contact with you, will remember you, Frank, and, though sad at your leaving, will be better and happier for having met you.
Be well and happy in the spiritual world where you now dwell. I ask God to bless you, though I know he will do so without my asking. You are so deserving of those blessings.
Frank; you may trust that I will never forget you. Your spirit awaits me, your mortal remains will always be at my side to remind me of my true best guy friend ever.
And as the first day, it will always be, “I love you Man”!
All my love,
Poppy Michael