• In Memoriam •

Bertram “Bertie” Ogden Wooster Simonds, founding beagle of Beagle Bay, Inc., CBO (Chief Barking Officer) who inspired the corporate logo, has passed away.

Bertie was born in southern Massachusetts to a Canadian Champion Field Trial Beagle sire and American Field Trial Beagle dam. He was as funny and bumptious as any of his six spotty brothers and sisters, and yet managed to capture Robin and Jacqueline’s hearts at Minute One. It was discovered almost immediately that somehow he’d learned how to hug - actually placing tiny arms on either shoulder and leaning his cheek into his human’s cheek. On one memorable occasion, this “trick” saved him from being the first beagle puppy on the Moon, when he chewed off a corner of an Oriental rug.

Bertie enjoyed the publishing business, even though books have long been the province of cats. He liked the people part, and was clear on his role as Beagle Bay’s goodwill ambassador. Few people came to the office or warehouse that Bertie could not get to smile. Cameras were often turned his way, and he managed to get into almost every shot concerning the company. He also delighted in answering the phone with a hearty bark or howl, lest anyone have any doubt about the name of the company.

He will be deeply missed.