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K9 Gizmo
EOW: 12-3-2021
The Phoenix Police Department and Meintel family are mourning the loss of one of their own, Retired K9 Gizmo. Gizmo passed away peacefully this evening at home surrounded by his family and those who loved him most.
K9 Gizmo selflessly served with the Phoenix Police Department from March 2013 to March 2018 as a member of the Sam 63 K9 squad. He served by the side of his handler, Officer Paul Meintel for his entire career. Gizmo was responsible for getting countless bad guys and narcotics off of the streets of Phoenix. Gizmo is credited with numerous apprehensions, saving countless lives.
Gizmo loved his job, but he also loved his family just as much. While he may have been all business on the streets, he was a loving member of the Meintel family. Especially after his retirement, Gizmo was loving and gentle with family and friends.
Those who knew Gizmo best at work said he was an absolute hammer at work. He lived for his job and keeping his community safe. But at the same time he could be gentle enough to do demonstrations for children. He was an once in a lifetime dog. A K9s K9.
And for those of us lucky enough to have known Gizmo in retirement, we can honestly say he was one of a kind. The sort of dog that comes around very rarely. He was so special and will live on in our hearts and memories forever. As well as everyone who had the honor of knowing him.
K9 Gizmo was truly a guardian of the night.
Please join us in keeping the Meintel family and department in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
Rest Easy Giz. We will never forget you good boy.
•••••
The Last Battle
If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done,
For this — the last battle — can’t be won.
You will be sad I understand,
But don’t let grief then stay your hand,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship must stand the test.
We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn’t want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.
Take me to where to my needs they’ll tend.
Only, stay with me till the end.
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree
It is a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.
Don’t grieve that it must be you
Who has to decide this thing to do;
We’ve been so close — we two — these years,
Don’t let your heart hold any tears.
#NeverForget #K9Gizmo
