Bench Dedication

Saturday, November 4, 2006

10:00 a.m.

Thorpe Park – Deephaven, MN

It was a lovely day and thanks to all of Gary's friends and admirers who joined us.  The weather was perfect - a little crisp and sunny.  Many Scotties and Westies and several doggie friends of Gary's were there.  Sharon Dodds read a note of thanks to all involved in getting the bench to Thorpe Park and its engraving.  She also chronologically listed all the steps taken to ensure Gary's memorial bench got to where it needed to be.

Gary's Scotties, Aunt Stella and Heidi, enjoyed the day.  We didn't get any pictures of Heidi because she was too busy visiting! 

Here's Aunt Stella in her kilt

Sharon and her mom, Clara

Sharon reading the dedication

Engraving on the bench

Following the dedication, we enjoyed coffee, doughnuts and hot chocolate.  We also went for a short walk around the park and the dogs enjoyed some treats afterwards.  We had a day of fellowship, warmth and laughter.  Gary would have enjoyed the day very much.

Thank you to all our adoptive families and friends for coming out for this event. 

Please join us on Saturday November 4, 2006 at 10 a.m. at Thorpe Park in Deephaven, MN for the dedication of the beautiful memorial bench in honor of Gary Penke.

Gary’s dogs, Aunt Stella and Heidi have donated a beautiful granite bench that has been engraved with Scotties and a short verse in honor of their owner, Gary, who passed away in March, 2005.  Aunt Stella and Heidi’s new owners, Bob and Sharon Dodds have made this bench a reality for the residents of Deephaven and Thorpe Park.  Gary spent many hours crafting his Grapevine Scotties just below the hill where the bench has been placed.

Coffee, hot chocolate and doughnuts will be served.

A short walk around the park will take place after the dedication.

Directions:  From 494  - Take County Road 5 - Minnetonka Boulevard West to Highway 101. Continue West on Minnetonka Boulevard.  At a stop sign, Minnetonka Boulevard turns left.  Turn Left and follow to Highland Avenue.  Continue and you'll see a small park - Thorpe Park.  Look for the warming house and a gathering of Scotties, Westies and Gary's friends.