In moments of farewell, love often expresses itself in the sweetest, simplest ways. That was certainly true for Simon, an 8‑year‑old rescue dog from Vancouver, Canada, whose final chapter was marked not by sorrow alone, but by community, celebration and shared joy.

Before he crossed the Rainbow Bridge, Simon’s final days were filled with what he adored most: sharing treats with his friends and soaking up the affection of everyone who knew him.

Simon came into the life of his human, Jamieson McCormack, as a fearful stray. Found living on the streets, likely abandoned by a previous family, he arrived in Canada through a rescue organization with a nervous disposition.

With patience, love and consistency, Jamieson helped Simon blossom into a calm, affectionate dog — one who loved people, other dogs, and the small pleasures of daily life.

One of Simon’s favorite traditions became a weekly visit to a local donut shop where he and Jamieson would pick up a dog‑friendly plain donut.

Afterward, they would walk to a nearby park and make a loop around a familiar 5K path, Simon nibbling his treat along the way and greeting other dogs they met. It was simple, but it was his ritual — one that brought him joy, connection and a sense of belonging.



In March, Simon was diagnosed with histiocytic sarcoma, an aggressive form of cancer. Despite six months of treatment, the disease spread and his quality of life diminished.

Facing the reality that Simon’s time was limited, Jamieson didn’t want his final days to be sad or subdued. Instead, she chose to celebrate the life he had lived — and the community he had become a cherished part of.

With support from friends and neighbors, including contributions to a community‑funded campaign that helped with Simon’s medical bills, Jamieson organized a farewell celebration in the park — a gathering of dogs and their humans who had been part of Simon’s life.

There, instead of a quiet goodbye, Simon got to share his favorite treats with every friend he had ever met. The donut tradition was honored once more, but this time Simon watched as dozens of pups sniffed and enjoyed treats together.

The party was more than just a gesture; it was a testament to the way Simon had touched lives.

People came not only to say goodbye, but to show gratitude — for the comfort his gentle presence had offered, for the way he seemed to intuitively sit beside someone who needed a quiet, reassuring moment, and for the calm joy he brought to gatherings in the park.

Many recalled how Simon’s soft approach or that now‑iconic gentle paw on a stranger’s leg had brightened a difficult day.

As he spent his last days surrounded by friends, treats, and familiar routines, Simon seemed genuinely happy — calm in the park, warm in the presence of his community, and comforted by the shared love around him.

A few days after the farewell celebration, Simon passed away peacefully on October 20, leaving behind memories of kindness, friendship and connection.

Simon’s story reminds us that a dog’s life isn’t measured solely by length, but by the quality of love and connection shared along the way.

His final celebration wasn’t just a farewell; it was a tribute to how deeply one dog can bring people together, enrich the lives of others, and leave a joyful legacy.

In celebrating with treats, friends and familiar places, Simon’s last chapter was a beautiful celebration of a life well loved — a memory cherished by all who were part of his journey.