Hugo Durrett

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Hugo lived life with an open heart and zero fear, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who loved him.

Hugo Durrett, our fearless baby boy and protector, has passed away at the age of 15. Hugo lived life with an open heart and zero fear, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who loved him. Hugo was my step-dog in the beginning, but he completely became my dog through the end, and I loved him so much. He was my shadow, following me around everywhere in the house.

Hugo was a sweet, lovable dog who took his job as a protector seriously, but his true passion was a relentless love for playing catch. Hugo could go for hours playing it. He would often refuse to let the game end, to the point of frustration or embarrassment when guests came over. He would shamelessly shove the ball right between our legs or next to us on the couch, forcing us to angrily throw it just to get a moment of peace.

When he wasn’t demanding another throw, Hugo was the ultimate co-pilot. He loved riding in the car, sitting right on our laps with his head out the window. At home, he was the self-appointed neighborhood watch, sitting contentedly on the porch for hours, people-watching.

Hugo was a true gentleman of routine. He wanted his food served exactly on time, twice a day, and he would look at me expectantly if it didn't happen right on schedule. He was a wonderful family dog. He was a patient, good older brother to Ella, and he did his best to tolerate Mean Fran (our rescue dog, who is no longer with us).

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Hugo was a sweet, lovable dog who took his job as a protector seriously, but his true passion was a relentless love for playing catch.

We often labeled him a "bad dog" because he would pee here or there, eat my clothing when left to his own devices, and bark at people and strollers. We’ve yelled his name so many times, gotten frustrated with him, and even bought him a “bad dog” prison Halloween costume. But all of those things just made us love him even more.

Hugo has been cremated, and we plan to scatter his ashes at his absolute favorite place: our park, right on the ballfield where he spent so many happy moments. To pass on his love for playing ball, we are donating 100 tennis balls to animal shelters in Pittsburgh so other dogs can share in his joy.

Hugo loved his family fiercely, and he was loved just as deeply in return. Our house is quieter today without Hugo, and we miss him.

Rest in peace, big boy. We miss you so much and hope you’re playing your favorite game right now.