Those of you who have been with doggies.com and breeders.net for a long while may remember Peter Buongiovanni, who was a co-owner of the company until just a few years ago. It is with great sadness that I announce Peter’s passing at about 4 pm today. He was a wonderful photographer, web designer, and graphic artist. He’s the one who designed the site and who hired me way back when to write this blog.

In the beginning, I interacted with Peter only through email, but felt an instant kinship with him. At some point I got it into my head that I needed to meet face-to-face with Peter and a couple of his friends (for whom I had also done some freelance work), so I drove from Ohio to Ontario. I stayed in a nearby bed and breakfast, and was looking forward to going into the city for a cookout at Peter’s house, followed by an event downtown. As I was getting ready to go, my B-and-B hosts said they’d always wanted to attend this particular event, so I invited them to come into the city with me.

Peter didn’t even blink when I showed up with two extra guests for the cookout – that’s the kind of person he was. So gracious and giving. He loved dogs, and he loved life. His death leaves a big hole in my heart.

Rest in peace Peter. I will miss you forever.