It is with heavy hearts, but countless happy memories, that we announce the passing of Goose, a very good boy who never met a stranger and firmly believed that every human existed solely to admire him.

Goose leaves behind his mom and best friend, Mel, whom he faithfully served as a PTSD service dog. While many knew him as a working dog, those closest to him knew his true profession was spreading smiles, collecting belly rubs, and convincing complete strangers that they had been lifelong friends. Goose was an accomplished professional in many fields, including expert tennis ball retriever, baby pool enthusiast, snack quality control inspector, and certified lap occupier despite never quite understanding that he wasn't actually lap-sized. 

A proud yellow Labrador with a heart far bigger than his paws, Goose approached life with endless enthusiasm. Whether he was running alongside Mel, attending concerts as the unofficial Brass Storm mascot, visiting new places, or simply wagging his tail at anyone willing to say hello, he lived every day with joy. He even had his moment in the spotlight when he proudly threw out the ceremonial first pitch at a Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders game, proving that even a service dog could become a hometown celebrity.

As a service dog, Goose quietly changed lives. He gave Mel confidence on difficult days, created space when the world felt overwhelming, interrupted PTSD episodes, and reminded everyone who met him that strength and gentleness can exist in the same soul. Goose's final lesson was perhaps his greatest. Even though he faced a sudden and devastating illness, he never stopped wagging his tail. The veterinary staff who cared for him quickly fell in love with his sweet spirit, and true to form, Goose spent his final days making new friends. Before saying goodbye, he enjoyed chocolate, soaked up every bit of love surrounding him, and reminded us all that joy can exist even in life's hardest moments. 

Goose is survived by countless family members, friends, fellow musicians, runners, veterans, healthcare providers, veterinarians, and complete strangers whose lives were made brighter simply because they had the privilege of meeting him. He was preceded in death by every tennis ball that mysteriously disappeared under the couch. 

In lieu of flowers, Goose requests that you throw an extra tennis ball, pet a dog you meet along the way (with permission, of course), greet the world with a wagging tail, and never underestimate the difference one good dog can make in a person's life. Run free, Goose. May there always be endless fields to explore, tennis balls that never wear out, pools to splash in, and new friends waiting just around the corner.

Thank you for every mile we ran together, every adventure we shared, every fear you helped me face, and every day you faithfully stood by my side. Until we meet again, buddy. You were, and always will be, the best boy.