There are no words to describe what it’s like to lose a loved one. Just the other day on October 02, 2023 at 3pm, we chose to help Bandit escape the pain of a tumor that was inside of him. The vet shared how this tumor could possibly erupt and it wouldn’t be good for Bandit or his parents (Tami and Gary). As believers, we both know that Heaven is our home, but I had to dig into the Bible to find out about what happens to our pets/animals. The Bible shares that information and you can see it if you decide to watch the Legacy video of Bandit below.
Bandit was smart. Bandit was kind. Bandit was handsome. That’s what I always heard my wife Tami say to him among many other things. She had so many names for Bandit, but I started to call him, “Bandy.” He was my best animal friend and would follow me around wherever I went. If I would leave his sight, he would find me, basically say Hello, and then leave. He used to climb up on his Mommy’s lap and turn himself around because he knew she loved to give him belly rubs. He was almost like a human in that sense in how he acted.
Over 14 years ago, Bandit gave me responsibility when I needed it the most. Just being married after being single for so long, I really needed this accountability to take care of something. He helped me with that and continued to help me in life. Though I would be mad at him because he’s barking too loud or trying to chase things, he really was the best dog. He didn’t do anything wrong- ever! I would tell him sorry if I wasn’t nice to him, but just like the God of the Universe, he would love me back unconditionally!
The purpose of sharing our dog Bandit in the Legacy section is to let people know how wonderful Bandit was and to use his story to encourage others to get to know the Creator of the Universe. At this time in my life, I feel totally humbled but also thankful that God could use a terrible event in order to bring more to HIM.
Are you in a place when life just isn’t satisfying like you thought it would? Then Jesus is calling you.
Are you in a place where relationships don’t give you full satisfaction? Then Jesus is calling you.
Are you in a place where you’ve reached the top, but it’s not what it seemed? Then Jesus is calling you too
There are so many places you can be in right now that don’t satisfy, but I just want to encourage you to hang in there because there is a solution. I know this solution by the way because I too was in a place where nothing was satisfying before I asked God to be a part of my life. It’s during those times that I think are the perfect time and place for us. Why? Because that’s when we’re more receptive to asking God into our heart! If that’s you right now, just cry out to the Lord and he will meet you right where you’re at today.
I hope you take a look at the video below and if you have any questions about God, the Bible, faith, Jesus, Heaven or anything else, I know that Bandit would love for me to give you my email address and phone number (in the business card section) so that I could try to help.
My Advice
Bandit would probably tell us to enjoy life as we go through it. He would also tell us to love one another like he did for everyone around him.
Oh Gary such a beautiful video! Thank you❤️
Bandit really was a special dog. Taught us so much about unconditional love. Thank you Jesus for creating him and allowing us to enjoy such a wonderful gift and 14 years with him. Your gifts are the very best!
Thank you for the gift of salvation and putting eternity into our hearts and the promise of heaven.
Gary
My heart is breaking for your and Tami’s loss. I remember meeting Bandit when you lived in Union. He was so very sweet! Your words of encouragement and hope have come at a much needed time in my life. Thank you for sharing Bandits video. ♥️ Blessings to you and Tami!
Gary what a beautiful tribute to Bandit while also sharing how much Jesus loves us!! I’m so sorry for your loss! Love hugs & prayers to you, Tami & Lily!
G, I am so sorry. What a legacy sweet bandit left! You’re message was so encouraging and I love how you related it back to the Fathers unconditional love for us! He loves us no matter what we do! We are so undeserving, but He still loves us unconditionally, Thank you Jesus! I know Bandits legacy will live on! Love to you and Tami!
G
Thank you so much for sharing your love for Bandit, his impact on you and Tami and your desire for the unconditional love Bandit offered you to change the lives of others for the name of Christ. Love you brother.
Thanks for sharing such a beautiful video full of sweet memories. Seems like just yesterday we were at your house when Bandit was a tiny precious pup. What a blessing to have such a special friend for 14 years, sadly tho it never seems long enough. We are so thankful we got to be a part of Bandit’s life story.
Love you guys❤️
~Suzanne
Gary and Tami, my heart is breaking for you both. This was a beautiful way to honor Bandit. You’re right- dogs set the example of Christ’s unconditional love. They’re such a blessing from God. We never know how much time we’ll have with our loved ones. We can only make it a point to treasure every moment we do have and thank God for the time He’s given us with them. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Beautiful tribute to Bandit and I love that you and Tami point to Jesus in what you shared. So sorry for this devastating loss. I’m in tears and grieving with you guys. Bandit – clearly a special dog, and I know you guys gave him the best life. Praying comfort over your household, friend.
Thank you so much for sharing your unconditional love for Bandit. Our pets become a very important part of our family. We spend so much time with them and share such an unbelievable connection with our dogs. The relationship between people and their dogs is the only unconditional love you have with another other than the relationship we have with God.
I have lost 2 of my dogs within the last 5 yrs and have a 65 pound goldendoodle that is 16 yrs old named, Roman. I thank the Lord for every day I get to spend with Roman.
I understand the utter pain you both are going through. I am so impressed that you did a tribute to Bandit. It was so beautiful. You all are in my prayers, including Bandit.
Even though Bandit is not with you today I firmly believe you will be reunited with him again. Thank you for sharing such an emotional story to the world!!!