A Portage "fixture," Fuerst-the Comfort Dog, passed away recently. Wearing a vest that said "please pet me," Fuerst cheerfully greeted children, adults and seniors throughout Portage and surrounding areas. The specially-trained, Golden Retreiver visited schools, nursing homes and events throughout Northwest Indiana. Generally accompanying Pastor Tim Engel of Holy Cross Lutheran Church of Portage, Fuerst was a visible symbol of love and companionship to all.
On 9/19/10, Fuerst visited the Memory Walk in Merrillville to greet the Walkers. While Tim Engel discusses details of the Memory Walk with Louise Thompson, Alzheimer's Association spokesperson, Walker Marsha Coleman pets Fuerst (Also pictured are Gina Kelly (left) and Leslie Bush (right) with the Alzheimer's Association)
The below picture shows Fuerst sitting next to Joy Lundstrom at a meeting of the Portage Kiwanis.
Note: More information is available through Holy Cross at 763-6343.