John was born at home in May 1971.

My mother and I decided to keep him because he was the runt of the litter and we didn't think that anyone else would want him.

Little did we know...

He was the most loving little guy I've ever known. John was beautiful and proud of it.

He was especially proud of his long fluffy tail. Being 1/4 Persian, he had soft thick fur.

He was a large cat (18lbs) which gave him a good solid feel under your hand.

"Gentleman John" sure knew how to win friends. Everyone who met him liked him.

Even people who didn't like cats found that they couldn't resist his charms.

He ruled the house with a loving paw.

He was the "top cat" but never lorded it over anyone.

The others all respected John - even Judy, His mother.

You can see that John get his good looks from his Mom.

John's favorite thing to do was lay on a chest and nuzzle a neck.

His gentle purr tickled your skin as you stroked his glossy coat.

He was a playful guy as well. He remained young at heart and enjoyed taking his toys out for a spin quite frequently.

John began to wear down in 1988.

He experienced hearing loss and weakness in his hind quarters.

By 1990 he stopped eating and had a difficult time drinking water.

One morning in December 1990, he almost drowned in the water bowl.

My mother and I decided that it was time...

John knew also. He looked up at me with an expression that seemed to say:

"I'm tired. I want to go now."

The vet was even sad when we brought John into the examining room.

I held John in my arms until he was gone.

My sweet little old man for whom I will always carry a torch in my heart was on his way to a better place.

I love you, Johnny...always and forever...