We lost a friend of HAWS this past weekend - a person who was integral to our beginning and our continued success.
Romey Schoeninger, co-founder of HAWS and life-long animal welfare advocate, died this past weekend at the age of 92. Her passing wasn't unexpected as she had been in hospice care, but it is still sad to know she is gone. We'll miss her phone calls of support and humor, her very sage advice, and her passion for our work here at HAWS.
Last fall the Wisconsin Federated Humane Societies gave Romey their Eugene Kable Humanitarian Award. This honor is only given on occassion when someone deserves the distinction because of their long-term public commitment to animal welfare. It is the highest achievement award presented by WFHS. The honoree is noted for their pioneering work, devotion, compassion and kindness. (In some of our opinions, giving Romey this award was the definition of a "no-brainer"!)
Romey was one of the area citizens who got HAWS going in 1965, and she was close by all throughout the past 43 years making sure we were on the right track. Even through tough times she could be counted on to be a clear and reasonable advocate. Not surprisingly, she was not one to take the credit that was due to her, but was quick to point out others who have been instrumental in HAWS success.
But her personal opinions and guidance were still very important to us. One staff member noted that after a tumultous time in the shelter's past, Romey gave that staffer her blessing to go back to working at HAWS. "It's okay - they are on track and things are going well." If Romey said it was okay, that was all that was needed. That staffer will celebrate a 10-year anniversary with HAWS soon - and hopes to be around much longer to help continue HAWS' legacy.
Thank you, Romey, from all of your admirers, both 2- and 4-legged. HAWS will miss you! It is our hope that we at HAWS will honor you with our work for many years to come.
