07/26/2023
Tribute to Buster
Sixteen years ago Buster walked into our lives, he was ten weeks old.
During that time we went climbing a lot. Every weekend we were out there and now with a puppy. Buster’s first outing was a 4 mile hike. He took to it like it was what he was made to do! That day has never left my mind.
Buster’s easy going demeanor, his love for the trail, and climbing areas made him a perfect partner. The climbing trip was no longer the highlight of my day or weekend, it was overshadowed by taking Buster and watching him in his element.
He had a thick fur coat so winters were perfect for him. When the temps reached near 80 degrees we got early starts and shortened our day.
Buster went everywhere with me.
Our trip to Indian Creek, Utah was awesome! He was just like another guy at the crag, really chilled out and everyone thought he was cool.
Buster had friends all over the country, most notably his special friend Clay Frisbee. Others he loved included Joe Romero, Stanley Vrba, Amanda Smith, Scott Deputy, Todd Johnson, Russell Hooper and hosts of others. His laidback demeanor made everyone take note and of course they immediately gravitated to Buster. He didn’t need a leash, never barked and was super low maintenance.
On the trail we would come across dogs with their owners. It was obvious that these dogs didn’t get outside much and acted out.
Buster and I would step off the trail and let them pass. He would just quietly sit at my side as the passing dog was going crazy. The family would always praise Buster for being so well mannered. This scenario was played out countless times over the years.
When we were home Buster would follow me from room to room until I finally sat down next to him. When I had to leave Lori would tell me that he waited at the back door for me. We were best friends 24/7.
My climbing trips out west were always met with a fair amount of anxiety. I couldn’t take Buster on my wall trips, and as he got older, I travelled less. I wanted to spend as much time with him as I could. I knew that at some point I would no longer have him. I tried not to think about it as it was too painful for me to imagine. You see, for me, Buster was not just a pet, he was my climbing and camping partner.
I climb alone a great deal of the time. Looking down from the climbing routes I’d see Buster napping by my pack or on his down jacket. I never worried about him wandering off, never. He was highly intelligent, and it was easy hanging out with him. He was like a regular climbing partner but said very little until it was time to go home! He would bark a few times letting me know he was ready for the trail!
For 16 years I was fortunate enough to have my boy Buster. The years flew by, it doesn’t seem possible, really.
A few weeks ago Buster got sick. He saw 8 different vets, countless tests, a big surgery, CT scans and more blood work. His body was shutting down but I wasn’t listening…
We heart broken over here. I’m missing you Buster, you were the best partner ever.
Love dad
