Last Night Our Best Friend In The World Died

by

After a short 13 1/2 years our best friend in the world, Bandit died last night.

He died like most of us would like to,  at home next to his loved one’s, Judi and I.

He went quickly and painlessly.

While most would point to the most incredible life he had, the places he went and how lucky he was to have a great life, we think we were the lucky ones.

Certainly he was a rare and precious gift from God.

We named him Bandit because when we saw him he stole our heart and we soon found out he had the same effect on thousand of people he met on his short time on earth.

There wasn’t a day or a place we went out with him where people didn’t come up to see him, ask what kind of dog he was, ask to take his picture , and to pet him and in turn Bandit would give them a kiss.

Over the years literally thousands of people all over the country and the world, stopped to chat with us.

We can’t begin to tell you how much joy, happiness he brought us everyday.

To us he wasn’t a dog, but a hairy child.

He was super smart, sweet, loving and we don’t really know what we are going to do without him in our lives.

Our hearts are broken.

Rest in peace our little boy, rest in peace.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

About Michael Berkens

Michael Berkens, Esq. is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of TheDomains.com. Michael is also the co-founder of Worldwide Media Inc. which sold around 70K domain to Godaddy.com in December 2015 and now owns around 8K domain names . Michael was also one of the 5 Judges selected for the the Verisign 30th Anniversary .Com contest.

Comments

  4. Donna Mahony says

    I am so sorry to hear this. As a pet lover myself I know the pain of losing a pet is no less than losing a human you love. Prayers to Bandit and I hope he meets up with some of my good four legged friends up there to help him adjust.

  8. Rick Schwartz says

    We all loved Bandit and so sorry to hear the bad news.
    I have a post that I did last night that I did not want to put up until you did.
    Alina, Freddy and I are heartbroken.

  9. Elliot says

    Very sorry to hear the sad news. Bandit was a special dog, and I know how important he is to you and Judi.

  10. craig marshall says

    Know how you feel….Hope that Bandit meets up with Tiger (australian terrior 1978-1996)
    He was a beauty too. He and Bandit can take turns being in charge…..I still miss him as I’m sure you will yours…….Be thankful you had those years together ……Craig

  11. JohnnyNet says

    Michael & Judi.

    Very sorry to hear of the passing of Bandit… beautiful dog… I’m glad to have met the domain world’s most famous and photogenic dog at T.R.A.F.F.I.C. Ft. Lauderdale last month… very amicable little Pal.

    I’ve had a dog most years of my life…still do …. so I truly know the loyalty and bonifde love that a dog brings into a family.

    You’ll forever remember all the joy with Bandit.

    Best Regards,
    JY

  20. Patty says

    So sorry Mike and Judi. I wish I had known Bandit better, but he was really famous in his own right, so I always felt like I knew him. xoxo Patty Grant

  22. Paul J Kapschock says

    Very sorry for your loss.

    Dogs are very special animals.

    My condolences to you and your wife.

  24. Jose Rasco says

    Michael and Judi,
    In the few years we’ve known each other, we’ve literally travelled the world together and many times, we had the pleasure of Bandit’s company. I know how much he meant to you both. Truly sorry for your loss and best wishes. We will keep you in our thoughts.
    Jose Rasco

  25. ADR says

    Very sorry to hear this. Our dogs are our best friends, and this is never an easy thing to deal with. I have heard so many good things of Bandit over the years.

  27. LindaM says

    Losing a companion always really sucks, I hope as time passes you can smile and know he’s having a ball in that great doggie park in the sky.

  28. Dan says

    Hi Michael,

    Very, very sorry for your loss…Had a few dogs I felt the very same as you about, and your right about the fact…” Certainly he was a rare and precious gift from God”

    Many are indeed…

    Sincerely,
    Dan

  29. Kevin says

    Bandit was one of a kind. The love and bond you, Judi and Bandit shared was deeper than any words could ever describe.

    Anyone who has experienced the unconditional love and friendship from their pet dog will tell you on their passing, the pain in your heart is unbearable, that cherished void in your soul can never to be filled. It is one of life’s most hardest moments and seems so unfair that a relationship so special ends after such a short amount of years.

    May God’s love protect and bless Bandit in his passing to the afterlife and comfort you and Judi in your hearts with the many wonderful memories Bandit brought you.

  30. Uzoma says

    I recall staying up late reading about Bandit on various blogs about a year ago! It’s almost like I lost one of mine. Well, I endorse everything written for Bandit here byLindaM, Ihf, Jose Rasco, Dan, Paul J Kapschock, Tia Wood, Patty, eBuv, Joe, RH, yes, domains, Kay, Makis, RK, JohnnyNet. Elliot, Rick, Acro, Braden, Pablo, Donna, Michael, Kevin, George…. and many more to follow; many people don’t get as much eulogy from great people such as thses, so, Bandit must have made a positive impact. Condolences to ((((Mike & Judi )))).

  33. Muscle Sprouts says

    Very sorry to hear this. My condolences.

    I also know too well how a great dog can reach into the depths of a person’s heart. It’s very hard when those special ones pass.

  35. Colin says

    Sorry for your loss, Mike & Judi. I can only imagine how hard that must be. The world is fortunate that you shared him as you did, and I’m sure many of us feel that we knew him through your many photos and stories.

  36. Louise says

    Sorry of your bandit! You and Judi were like parents to him. It makes reflect on our gift of Peppi – part beagle part schnouzer – from years ago . . .

  37. Shane Cultra says

    People that don’t have pets all think we are being a bit crazy when we cry for a few days after the loss of one. I’m sure Bandit was like my dog and was one of the best listeners you ever had. Never had a negative thing to say and true to the end. Reminds me of one of my favorite quotes.

    “If I have any beliefs about immortality, it is that certain dogs I have
    known will go to heaven, and very, very few persons.”
    –James Thurber

  40. Alistair Banerjee says

    Very sorry for your loss, Michael. I am a dog lover myself and in my life almost always had one. Still do. I have gone through the pain of losing one myself and I know how hard it can be for you guys. On top of that toy breeds are so playful and compassionate, I have a Chihuahua at the moment and can’t even think of losing him.

    My condolences.

    Alistair

  41. Moniker Princess says

    Mike/Judi – I’m so sorry to hear about Bandit’s passing! He was such a great dog and loved by all! He will be with us forever in our hearts/memories!

    XO

  43. Morgan says

    Daina and I were both so sorry to hear this news. Bandit had such a great life thanks to you and Judy! I know he will be missed and am so sorry for your loss.

  45. Diana Jackson says

    Oh so sad, everyone loved Bandit. I will miss him so much too. You and Judi were the best
    doggie parents in the world. I hope the love and support of your friends will help ease a little of the pain for you and Judi.

  49. Ron Sheridan says

    Mike, Judi, so sorry to hear about Bandit’s passing. My thoughts are with you both.

    He lived a truly rich life.

  50. james says

    Very sorry to here that Mike but how weird is this im a full time domainer and my dog also died last night. It was 14 years old and it was called Brandy , the bread is a Shar pie.

  51. fizz says

    My condolences to you and Judi, Michael for the loss of your best friend. I never had the chance to meet Bandit but always enjoyed seeing him star in all those photos on your travels.

  55. Philip says

    All the old anchors come back and hit me every time I see or read these things, it is difficult but a small price to pay for the unconditional commitment & joy of the years you get.

  58. Bob says

    Sorry to here about Bandit, the good news is you will see him in the future, when my buddy Tara passed away i was hurting really bad, so i started reading about pets and the afterlife the good news is we will all be back together again…. Life is short.

  60. Ken Hansen says

    Dear Michael and Judi

    So sorry to hear about your friend Bandit. He attended domainer events and ICANN meetings all over the world (including some parties). He seemed to take the travel in stride, and was just happy to be with the two of you. Hugs to the two of you.

    Best
    Ken

  61. Francois says

    OUCH!!!

    I imagine how Judy and you must be destroyed.

    Think Bandit is probably now in peace somewhere…

    I share your sadness and breathe you love and courage.

  63. Oliver says

    Hi Judi,
    hi Michael,

    sorry to hear about your loss. I was pleased to meet Bandid when we met in Munich.

    My sincere condolences.

    Oliver

  64. jim sickorez says

    Judy and Michael,

    My condolences to you both for the loss of your best friend…It’s never easy, but hopefully with time the pain will pass and turn to joy remembering the many wonderful times you had together…

  69. Donny Simonton says

    Sorry to hear about the sad news. You both had a very special dog and Bandit had a great life.

  70. Alan says

    Mike and Judy

    Gabi and I learned of your loss last night. I have been there too with my beloved two dogs in the past, I know the pain. Only time and his memory will heal the wounds. Please pass our condolences to Judy as well.

    Alan and Gabi Z.

  71. Lori Anne Wardi says

    Dear Mike & Judi,
    I could hardly believe it this morning when I heard the news about Bandit. We were so glad that we just had the chance to share pictures and stories about him with you in such a fun and relaxed way… May Bandit rest in peace…
    xoxo
    Lori Anne

  72. Frank Michlick says

    Judi & Michael – My most sincere condolences. Rest in peace Bandit.

    Thinking of you,
    /Frank

  73. Makis.TV says

    Sad news indeed!
    I have a puppie for the last two montha and already stole my heart, I cant feel you 100% percent but you have my full sympathy about it.

    ps: months after from today you may have another lucky guy in your family telling him storied about “The Bandit”.

  75. Dave Evanson says

    Judi and Mike,

    So sorry to hear this very sad news. I’m glad I got to meet and speak with him a few times. He was very special.

    Prayers and thoughts are with you.

    Dave

  76. howard Neu says

    I have had a few pets in my lifetime, but Bandit was more than a pet, he was your child and will be sorely missed by Barbara and me and Ray and Kim and the entire Domain community. He was a symbol of the good fellowship that we all shared, knowing that Bandit Berkens would be part of the festivities.

    In restaurants, you didn’t even know he was there, he was so good. When he got a present, he couldn’t wait to unwrap it himself and see what was inside. He brought love and joy to everyone who met him. He will leave a void that cannot be filled except by his memory of good times. We love you and Judi and are so sad at OUR loss.

  77. Bob Lee says

    Michael,

    Condoldences to you and Judy for your loss. It’s never, ever easy.

    It’s obvious that the love that Bandit shared with you two was as sincere as only a true loved one could express. Your “hairy child” describes your love for him beyond any further description. To be a part of such love that Bandit share with so many is so very fortunate. I can tell that your lives have and will be forever changed by him coming into your lives. You gave him the ability to be and return your love.

    I trust before long you both will be able to celebrate the love that he broth into your lives and allow yourselves to appreciate what he gave you and to heal. Love really is a beautiful thing.

    With best regards,

    BobLee
    Orlando

  79. Winston says

    Hi

    As a fellow dog lover who has endured the deaths of 3 beloved collies over the past 40 years, I know exactly how you feel.

    My sympathies to you.

    WF

  80. Steve O'Brien says

    So sorry for your loss Mike! I have 6 adult kids and a 5 year old Yorkie named Jasper. He is always the best kid in the bunch everyday. I have seen many pictures of Bandit over the years on Ron’s website and Rick’s posts – he was a great looking Yorkie. Best to you both – Steve

  82. George Cohn says

    (Found on the monument for Lord Byron’s dog, Boatswain, on the grounds of Byron’s seat in Nottinghamshire, Newstead Abbey.)

    “Near this Spot
    are deposited the Remains of one
    who possessed Beauty without Vanity,
    Strength without Insolence,
    Courage without Ferosity,
    and all the virtues of Man without his Vices.

    This praise, which would be unmeaning Flattery
    if inscribed over human Ashes,
    is but a just Tribute to the Memory of
    BOATSWAIN, a DOG.
    Who was born in Newfoundland May 1803
    and died at Newstead Nov. 18th 1808.

    When some proud Son of Man returns to Earth,
    Unknown by Glory, but upheld by Birth,
    The sculptor’s art exausts the pomp of woe,
    And stories urns record that rests below.
    When all is done, upon the Tomb is seen,
    Not what he was, but what he should have been.
    But the poor Dog, in life the firmest friend,
    The first to welcome, foremost to defend,
    Whose honest heart is still his Masters own,
    Who labours, fights, lives, breathes for him alone,
    Unhonour’d falls, unnotic’d all his worth,
    Deny’d in heaven the Soul he held on earth –
    While man, vain insect! hopes to be forgiven,
    And claims himself a sole exclusive heaven.

    Oh man! thou feeble tenant of an hour,
    Debas’d by slavery, or corrupt by power –
    Who knows thee well must quit thee with disgust,
    Degraded mass of animated dust!
    Thy love is lust, thy friendship all a cheat,
    Thy smiles hypocrisy, thy words deceit!
    By nature vile, ennoble but by name,
    Each kindred brute might bid thee blush for shame.
    Ye, who perchance behold this simple urn,
    Pass on, it honours none you wish to mourn.
    To mark a friend’s remains these stones arise;
    I never knew but one – and here he lies.”

    Our deepest condolences on your loss

  84. Melissa says

    Sorry to hear of your loss. It’s always hard to lose a member of the family. It sounds like he’s a huge part of a lot of memories, and was well loved. I don’t think a pup could ask for much more.

  87. Dean says

    I have an Akita and Two Chow, Chow mix, all three rescue dogs. I saw a bumper sticker the other day in the shape of a giant paw that read “Who Rescued, Who?” that pretty much sums up my feelings about my dogs, I can’t imagine how sad it will be to loose one someday. My condolences, hang in there.

  89. maybe says

    The one species that knows more about man than any other, including man himself, is the dog. They’ve evolved side by side in work and play.

    Man is dog’s best friend.

    Having a painting of your dog is a great way to preserve their memory.

  90. Kimberly Ann says

    I found this & thought of you guys 🙂 I love you both, Ray & I miss him so much..

    When Tomorrow Starts Without Me

    When tomorrow starts without me
    and I’m not there to see,
    If the sun should rise and find your eyes,
    all filled with tears for me,

    I wish so much you wouldn’t cry
    though I know your heart aches so
    But remember it was for the best…
    It was my time to go.
    I know how much you love me…
    As much as I love you.
    And each time you’re thinking of me,
    I know you’ll miss me too.

    When tomorrow starts without me,
    don’t think we’re far apart,
    For every time you think of me,
    I’m right here in your heart.

  91. George says

    I’m deeply sorry fo both of you.
    Just remembering Bandit your hearts
    will be full of joy forever.

    George

  94. Anonymous Coward says

    Mike, sorry for your loss. The loss of a pet is the worst. Their unconditional love is the best. In order to enjoy the best, we are forced to endure the worst. It’s worth it. God Bless.

  97. BrianWick says

    Hi Michael & Judith,
    A life is only as good as the other lives it influences – including your “hairy child” – who had a positive influence on Trina & I and so many others – Bandit was a noteable staple of the TRAFFIC conferences – and those memories will never go away.
    Thanks
    Bri

  98. newcar.tv says

    So sorry for your families loss!! You will be in my prayers!! May all the fond and loving memories bring a little peace. God Bless your whole family!

    Phil

  99. Jothan Frakes says

    Mike and Judy-

    I am at a loss for words to express my deepest condolences to reflect anything appropriate for what you must be feeling.

    I am sad for your loss of Bandit, and grateful to have shared at least 3 cities among some of the the locations in the world that he joined you at.

    Bless you both,
    Jothan

  101. www.wagey.net says

    hello there,

    well, even i don’t much about ” bandit ” but i’m sure what its feel to loose our ” best friend ” …

    sorry for your both lost…

    Rest in Peace, Bandit

    Regards,

    Ramon Wagey

  102. Steve says

    Sooo sorry about your incredible loss. I’d jump in front of a car for my little pup which is almost 2 years of age. To spend another 11 years with your loved one could only be a pain compounded beyond that of which I could not even imagine if I lost mine. Wishing you the absolute best.

  103. Michael H. Berkens says

    Judi and I are overwhelmed by all of the genuinely warm wishes and support on the passing of our wonderful Bandit boy.

    Not only in your comments here, but on Facebook, in your emails and through your phone calls and on Ricksblog.com, we feel Bandit has touched your heart as he will always be in ours.

    The words of one domainer who wrote me I think may have summed it up best:

    “Hard to imagine that one little, fabulous dog came to own the hearts of so many former strangers; strangers which somehow became the best part of a whole Industry!”

  105. Michael H. Berkens says

    We have decided to have a memorial service for Bandit and bury him in a Pet Cemetery.

    Services will be held on Wed November 30 at 12:30 at the Broward Pet Cemetery

    11455 N.W. 8th Street
    Plantation FL 33325
    954-476-0743

    It is about 5 minutes away from the Sawgrass Mall and is in a lovely residential area surrounded by Horse properties.

    The service will be opened to anyone who would like to attend.

    Although Judi and I have had other pets, and loved each and every one, Bandit was special and deserving of a special memorial and final resting place.

    The cemetery is very nice and there are many much loved companions at rest there.

    If you can make the ceremony the grounds are opened 6 days a week for visiting.

    Thanks to all of you

  106. Ron Jackson says

    I was out of state the past four days and rarely had a chance to get online so got this sad news late. So sorry to hear you and Judi lost such a dear loved one and wonderful companion. Bandit touched us all in such a positive way. He will never be forgotten by any of the hundreds of friends he made in his many travels over the past 13 years.

  108. Jack Sinclair says

    Michael,

    I can’t believe Bandit is gone… all of us here in Vancouver BC want to send you and Judi some love during these difficult emotional times, and hope some small part of it is felt, to lift the heart in these heavy times.

    Jack

  109. Mike Law says

    Sorry for your loss Michael, condolences. RIP to your beloved Bandit, the domain industry’s most famous pet ever.

  110. greg dumas says

    My condolences to Judi and Mike. The loss of a special friend like Bandit is a terrible experience and I wish you well. XOXO

  112. Nadia says

    Very sorry for your loss. I just adopted a little rescue dog, Izzy, last month, and she already feels like a family member. I am sure Bandit knew how loved he was, and appreciated having you close by during his final moments. RIP sweet doggie.

  113. debbie gross says

    So sorry to hear about Bandit. He will be missed. May the great memories you have of him help you get through this difficult time. Debbie and Shelly

  114. Mr.T says

    Our deepest condolences to you both, Judi and Mike. May the memories of wonderful Bandit be with us all forever and always.

  116. Dawn Caputo says

    Michael and Judi,

    As the dog owner of Rudy, my 4 year old Maltese, I wanted to express my condolences for the loss of your beloved Bandit. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

  119. JillXan says

    So sorry –we too wanted send our condolences for the loss of your beloved Bandit.
    Our children in fury coats are such a special part of our families and lives… Forever
    Our best to you and Judi.
    JillXan and Jan

  120. Alexa Raad says

    Hi Mike

    I was so shocked and saddened to read the news. The love you had for him was evident. Having been through a similar loss myself, I can understand how you feel. Wishing you peace and love

  121. Ricc says

    Sorry to hear this. I’ve lost my dalmatian, Taylor, after 13 years recently and know how sad it is to lost such a loved one. Perhaps the two of them are playing at the rainbow bridge

  122. Carlos Martins says

    R.I.P. hairy child!
    WE know what really means lost a friend like you lost. As everyday we care of our dogs and some abandoned cats i am feeling your pain. Next February we remembered the year of 2009 when we lost our Nanook an husky female that lived with us during years. She is buried on our bio garden and everyday we place flowers and fruits over her “sacred” body.
    Peace for HIM and for you too.
    thanks to François Carrilo that wrote about your lost.

    Carlos Martins, Lisbon, Portugal
    http://www.domainsinternational.net

  123. Annalisa says

    Judi and Michael,
    It was easy to see Bandit was a very special boy who seemed to transcend his dog-hood. I am so sorry for the pain and sorrow of losing your dear family member.
    Please take care, best wishes to you both in this difficult time.
    best,
    Annalisa

  124. Clyde & Liz says

    Judi and Mike, Our sincere condolences on your loss. No dog ever had more TLC than Bandit had from you guys.

  125. Nadir Patel says

    Hi Judi and Mike,

    I am sorry for your loss! I am lucky to have met Bandit at TRAFFIC a couple months ago. My first and last hello/goodbye. Bandit seemed like a great dog and he had a great personality. He will surely be missed! Rest In Peace

    Truly,
    Nadir Patel
    eClickZ.com

  126. chico says

    so sad when you lose your dog mine was taken and pushed of a five storie buildings when i got home with my mother from grandmas my mom ran down stairs crying made me cry to but i had no idea what was going on then she tells me the dogs are gone omg i need a xannx right now cuz it hurts thinking about that day its been ten years already dogs are gone damm srry can’t finish my story R.I.P STACY AND BANDIT HEY BANDIT take care of stacy ill give a nice treat when my time is up judie and mike i wish you my deepest sympathy it is really hard i’m still dealing with my lost but best wishes to both

  128. JNet says

    Ya’ll stay tuned for the announcement of the First Annual Bandit Berkens “Goodwill Ambassador Award” at T.R.A.F.F.I.C. Ft Lauderdale in October.