“Bear was a rescue kitten found outside hanging in a tree by his neck in early 2006. He was welcomed into the home of Melanie Klein where he received his name due to his large paws which reminded them of a bear. Bear spent the next decade+ living with the Kleins which included children and other cats where I was a neighbor. Eventually Bear moved with the family to Wheaton and the new home wasn’t suited for Bear. I adopted Bear and another cat named Ruthie. Bear is a loving and attentive housemate. When you get home from work, Bear is the first to greet you and expects some head scratches and loving. I have always referred to that as the Bear tax. Anytime you pass near Bear you should always pay the Bear tax, it’s good for Bear and it’s good for the soul. Bear loved spending time outdoor weather permitting, lying in the sun, and watching the outside from his cozy loft. Bear would have days where he would want constant affection and days when he just wanted to be comfortably near you. He was a protector and would sleep on your legs to ensure you were safe. He was extremely caring and wanted to be held for long periods of time. He was not a vocal cat, but gentle, loving, and always present. His curiosity and affection are already greatly missed. He was nearly 20 and was given as much time and love as he was able to accept in his last years of life. I will be forever grateful I was able to spend time with him.”
Bear is remembered by his family and loving companion, Matthew.
“Bear is the kind of animal that you would love even if you were not an animal lover. Bear more than convinced me all animals deserve love and care.”
