Many years ago, when I first started to trial, I met a wonderful couple named Al and Ginger Zuppan. They would go out of their way to be kind to a green handler like me and make me feel welcome. They were were super nice but excellent handlers. They have touched many people over the years and many stories can be told about them.
Once, as I ran at a trial with Tess and we didn't do so well (we sucked) and I was feeling down, Al came over to me and took the time to talk to me. I don't remember the exact words but it was something like this "You will have good days and bad days. We all do. Tomorrow will be your good day - If you want it to be- so let it be"
The next day we had a great day. A kind word goes along way.
Today, we lost Al to pancreatic cancer. It is a great loss to all of us, especially so to Ginger, his lovely wife.
Put your Al Zuppan stories here, if you wish.
Rest in Peace, Al Zuppan.
4 comments:
I was fortunate to have met Al and Ginger several years ago though my job. This was some time before I ever got caught by the trialing bug. But I did catch the bug and Al and Ginger play a large part in that. Their encouragement, generosity with time and knowledge will not be forgotten.
My sympathies go out to Ginger, as well as both of their families.
Carolyn
Thank you for the memories about my father. I still remember when he first really got into training border collies. He loved it, and he loved sharing his enthusiasm for it with others.
What a lovely couple.
While this comment is a bit late, I want to echo everyone's sentiments about Al and Ginger. I am a friend of Ginger's daughter and I remember Jennifer telling me how happy her mom has been ever since she met Al. I had the opportunity to watch them and their brilliant dogs work sheep at the Grand National Horse Show one year -- it is something I will never ever forget.
I hope Al is in heaven riding cutters and working his dogs.
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