Frankie’s government name was Professor Franklin J Cattington III (he was so amazing that he just had to be the third, no one or two necessary to precede his awesomeness). He was rescued as a tiny, evil little soot sprite by my brother when he was a teeny tiny kitten and grew up to be such a chill, grouchy, grump of an old man that everyone fell in love with. We were lucky enough to become his “foster” when my brother’s life changed and his cats needed a “temporary” new home. Despite being separated from his two brothers, Dave and Buster, Frankie got two new brothers and that temporary home became six years.
In Frankie’s 13 years, he lived in 3 states, had 4 brothers, was lucky enough to have 2 cat dads (weirdly both named Chris), and only knew love. He loved white cheddar popcorn and tortilla chips, cereal milk, yogurt, and rotisserie chicken! Our sweet boy loved a comfy blanket, a heating pad (or electric blanket) was his ultimate downfall, found love in a stuffed chicken nugget, a diligent birdie and squirrel watcher, and no sunny spot was ever spared his snoozes!
Frankie was also a diligent biscuit maker and was lucky enough to achieve Regional Meownager at the local biscuit factory – this boy worked himself to the bone out of love for his trade, day and night, holidays, overtime. He put his all into his trade and always shared with his family. In his final moments with us, he shared one last batch of biscuits that we will treasure forever.
Thirteen years is not enough but we love you so much for telling us it was time. I am so grateful you held out to watch your dad and I get married, see your grandpawrents one last time, and be reunited with my brother (his “biological” father). You are reunited with your brothers, Dave and Buster and I know they missed you so much. I promise we will always go to the “leftover store” and make sure we save some for you. And don’t worry about Binx and Nimbus, your dad and I will get them through this and they will always know and remember your snuggles (even if you did tend to smother Nimbus). As hard as it is to say goodbye, we know you are no longer in pain and living your best life on the back of your favorite couch with a perfect sun beam over you!
Rest easy Frankie, Bubs, Bubbies, Bubbers, Big Tuna, Professor Franklin J Cattington III