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Dorothy Nickles Wehrung

1910 - 2009

Dorothy Wehrung Obituary

Dorothy Nickles Wehrung, 99, passed away Tuesday, June 16, 2009.
Memorial service: 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 1, in Greenwood Chapel.
Memorials: Take the Lead Organization, Box 6353, Watertown, N.Y. 13601; or Southwest High School, Fort Worth ISD, 100 N. University Drive, Fort Worth, Texas 76107.
Dorothy Nickles Wehrung, aka Miss Dorothy, was born April 27, 1910, in Farmersville. Her parents, James and Leila Maud Nickles, moved from Virginia to settle in this community and raise their seven children. There were four girls and three boys, with Miss Dorothy being the next to the youngest. Her father, James, worked for Collin County as a supervisor of road and bridge construction, before retiring from work as a Farmersville city employee. As was the custom of the day, her mother, Leila Maud remained in the home to care for her family.
Miss Dorothy received her basic education in the Farmersville school system, graduating in 1928 at the end of her 11th year. There wasn't a 12th year in school. Also during her school years, she lettered in basketball. Although only in the 11th grade and very small, not weighing 100 pounds, she was a very good shot and earned her sweater. She even found time to be a "yell leader" (cheerleader) during these years. Following high school she attended Burleson College in Greenville. To get to college she hitched a ride with newspaper boys and helped them deliver the Dallas Times Herald each afternoon from Greenville to Farmersville. After a year of college, Miss Dorothy had the ability to do "professional" teaching. She taught at Boggy School for seven years. Her father counseled her to "find a place to go because there is no improvement here." She attended North Texas Normal, now the University of North Texas, on Saturdays and during the summer, while continuing to teach at Boggy. To earn extra money, she worked at Comes Theater with her brother, Boss. He taught her to run the movie projector. She also worked at Cook's Dry Goods store and Vivian Woodard's Boutique to help pay her way. She also roller-skated professionally with her brother, Dewey, to earn a little extra cash.
In 1935, Miss Dorothy began her long employment with the Fort Worth Independent School District. She taught at Diamond Hill High School. She received her master's degree from North Texas Normal in administration in 1938 and began work on her doctorate in psychology. She moved to Carter-Riverside High School in 1942 to teach English. During this time, she played basketball and worked at various stores and hotels during the summer to make a little extra money. Also during this time, she met and married Charles C. Wehrung, a captain for American Airlines and the proud owner of a Boxer. This was the beginning of her interest in purebred dogs. Eventually, Miss Dorothy became the vice president of Southwest High School in 1968 and remained in that position until her retirement in 1975.
After retiring from Fort Worth lSD, Miss Dorothy had more time to dog judging. Judging throughout the world kept her very busy and very involved with people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds. She has also been tremendously rewarded for her endeavors in the dog show world. She was selected Judge of the Year in 1988, Woman of the Year in 1994 and received AKC's Lifetime Achievement Award in Conformation in 2001.
She was an American Kennel Club dog show judge, approved for all breed conformation, obedience and tracking events.
Miss Dorothy had the distinct honor of judging Best in Show at the first AKC Classic Dog Show. The show was held in Orlando, Fla., on Dec. 12, 2001. At the time of her death Miss Dorothy had been judging dog shows 57 years.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles C. Wehrung; sisters, Bessie Kesterson, Velma Peel and Lucille Nickles; and brothers, Boss, Dewey and Jack Nickles.
Survivors: Several great-grandnieces; numerous high school graduates; and a worldwide dog show community.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Star-Telegram on Jun. 21, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Dorothy Wehrung

Sponsored by Annette Rister and Mike & Charlee Helms.

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Christina

December 1, 2019

In search for any information/picture of her husband, Charles Christian Wehrung. He is my grandfather and she is my step grandmother. Please email me [email protected] with any information, thank you!! God Bless.

Sally Swafford

September 29, 2017

How I loved you Mrs Wehrung!!! For some reason you liked me, trusted me to walk your poodles (your pride and joys) and trusted me to fix your hair!!! Plus I loved English because of you! I want you to know that you had a huge impact on my life and I always loved you for that. RIH my sweet Mrs. Wehrung! You're the best

michele harney

April 17, 2010

I was watching a dog show this morning, and even tho the judges are good, Miss Dorothy's grandeur, and love of the dogs is greatly missed

December 12, 2009

Mrs Wehrung was my English teacher at Carter Riverside High in the 60s She took me under her wing and made a great impression on me. I lost track of her after I left Carter but ran into her again twice at dog shows. She was a great lady and a great influence on my life.
Bonnie Erspamer(Clarksville Tn)

Susan T

July 20, 2009

Miss Dorothy

I showed my dogs to her many times over the 30+ years I've been in dogs and stewarded for her too, and she was always friendly, gracious, and knowledgeable. The sport has lost a wonderful person. She was a legend in our sport and an inspiration to many. She will be missed.

My condolences to her family.

P S

July 19, 2009

The AKC has lost truly a legend in the sport of dog showing. It was a pleasure and a privilege when Ms. Nickels judged your dog. She will always be remembered!

July 10, 2009

She was Miss Nichols when she taught me at Carter Riverside. She was tough but extremely fair. Some of the things I learned from her I used when I taught for the FWISD. I celebrate her life. Beverly Sharp Germany

Nancy Koivisto

July 5, 2009

Was a pleasure to watch her work her way thru each ring. A true lady and wonderful judge of conformation. Another star is in the sky tonight, what a joyous reunion it must have been for her.

Randy Carr

July 2, 2009

Always a joy to exhibit to and to watch judge- a true Texan, dogwoman, judge and showgirl! Her great sense of humor, both in and out of the ring, will be missed. She loved her little chihuahuas and did well by them in the Breed, Group and BIS ring. Miss Dorothy you will missed but not forgotten. Randy Carr

Bente Opsalh & Gerry Putnam

July 1, 2009

There will never be another you, you are one of a kind. I Loved you in my blue Norwegian rainboots. No one could judge like you. God bless

David & Debbie Rasberry

June 30, 2009

The dog show world has lost an icon - heaven has gained a STAR! Miss Dorothy made a lasting impression on everyone whose path she crossed. Shine On Sweet Lady!

Ken Ulrickson

June 30, 2009

To the family of Mrs. Wehrung, I extend my sympathy on her passing into eternity. I just learned of her passing last night, and looked here. I had Mrs. Wehrung for six semesters of English at CHS, class of '66. She was a fearsome foe. One semester I had an "A" average and refused to say my 100 lines of poetry. Mrs. Wehrung said that it counted as 50 percent of my grade, and I said that I would take a "C". When the report card came out, there was my "F". I hurried to her room and she said,"What is half of a 100?" Lesson learned, don't try to bluff Mrs. Wehrung when you don't have any power, and no one at home is going to back you either, because you were being stupid. I graduated with a BA in English, and was one of the most respected and feared grammarians on the Fort Worth Police Department. I loved Ms. Wehrung dearly as my most memorable teacher, and wrote a theme on her in college. There is not a month that goes by that I do not think about her and the people at CHS several times. Two of my friends relocated to Alaska and showed Brittany Spaniels, they met her at a dog show in Louisiana and started talking about Fort Worth,their high schools and mentioned that I was a friend that went to Carter. Mrs. Wehrung said, "That Kenny Ulrickson was so lazy." and they both agreed that, "Yeah, that's him." Well, at least she remembered me too, so I knew that I had made an impression. God Bless you, Mrs. Wehrung I will always remember, love you, and hope to see you again.

Guy Heiman

June 30, 2009

Ms.Dorothy Nickles was most loved and respected by all she touched in the dogshow community. She had a special place in the hearts of The American Chinese Crested Club. She will be sincerely missed and her memory will be most precious to those she leaves behind. A.C.C.C. Sunshine Committee

June 29, 2009

Miss Dorothy you will be missed. I showed to you and was a steward in your ring. You were one of my favorite judges to steward. You were always very precise with what you wanted and expected in your ring, but still took your time to make new exhibitors feel welcome and at ease. You were always great with the juniors. I will miss you and your smile. God speed and give out lots of pats on those soft dog heads on your way over the bridge.

Charlotte Creed

June 29, 2009

She was a lady ahead of her time in so many avenues of her life. Ms Dorothy was an inspiration to all who new her. She will be greatly missed.

richard nachman

June 28, 2009

dorothy we will all miss you. you were an inspiration, mentor and great friend to all of the upcoming judges and students in the show dog world. while quite theaatrical, you never failed to teach us with your great knowledge and wit. rest well

Erika Moureau

June 26, 2009

Miss Dorothy....truly a legend. You taught me more about dogs and dogshows than you knew.
It was my absolute privilege and honor
to have known you.
This sport will never be the same for me,
now that you are gone.

June 25, 2009

So enjoyed reading about the other
career of Mrs. Wehrung. She was such a
wonderful teacher and I can remember
today acting out The Three Faces of Eve
in her class room for a book report.
She loved it. We could use a million
more like her.
Earline Wood CHS Class of 61

Jean

June 25, 2009

Our hearts are filled with memories to treasure because you led a full and joyful life. Your sharp wit, your playful smile, your sometimes scowl, your direct responses still bring a smile to my mind. My first group 1, is but one fine thought as I look above my desk at your ring photo.

CAROL CASHDON

June 24, 2009

I HAD THE PLEASURE OF SHOWING SEVERAL OF MY MINIATURE POODLES TO MISS DOROTHY. THE GREATEST WIN SHE GAVE TO ONE OF MY DOGS WAS A GROUP 1 AT THE INVERNESS KENNEL CLUB SHOW IN 1988, A PUPPY OF 10 MONTHS WHO WENT ON TO BIS THAT DAY. THANK YOU MISS DOROTHY FOR A WONDERFUL DAY. REST IN PEACE

Jody Schoenfeld

June 24, 2009

Truly a wonderful lady, you helped so many of us in the dog world...I sat beside your mother at many a show and she was so like you...Remember the Hershey Kiss that was on your table,well she is the one that told the guys you loved them...so whenever you were judging and any of them were there they put one on your table...You will be so missed.

Paula Thompson

June 24, 2009

Mrs. Wehrung was one of a kind!! Prior to entering CHS, I had heard that she was a tough teacher. If I endured 4th grade wth Mrs. Alta Lee at Springdale Elementary, I could handle Mrs. Wehrung!! I had her every semester, except one, and I learned so much from her. I am a legal secretary today and still use what she taught me regarding grammar and punctuation. I even tell my attorneys, "Mrs. Wehrung said we do it this way!!" They don't even know who Mrs. Wehrung was, but I make the changes on a document like the way she taught me!! One of the last conversations I had with her, I told her how I tell my attorneys how she would have wanted a document with correct grammar and punctutation -- she laughed and thanked me for thinking of her.
She truly was a great lady -- we were blessed to have known her at CHS as well as her AKC friends!!

Paula Howell Thompson
CHS Class of '66

Terri Mayfield

June 24, 2009

Miss Dorothy was the grandest of grand. I had the privilege of showing under her numerous times and she was exceptionally kind when I was just getting into the world of conformation. Miss Dorothy, you will be missed. May your family find peace during this difficult time.
Terri Mayfield
Watertown, SD

Susan McAdams Harrell

June 24, 2009

A great lady, great teacher who taught me to learn everyday. You will be missed.

Jeanne Hammack Willberg

June 23, 2009

I don't think I ever feared another teacher as much as I did Mrs. Wehrung the first day of her English class, not at Carter Riverside High School or later in college. That was before I came to know her and learn from her. When I left her class for the last time, I was still scared to death of her. She could send shivers with one look. But I left her class knowing my stuff. I finished college with a BA in English and earned a Master's in English because of the foundation she helped me build. I will never forget her or the things I learned in her classes. What a wonderful teacher and person she was. God bless, Mrs. Wehrung. (I just cannot make myself call her Dorothy!!

Arlene Harris

June 23, 2009

Oh the memories that I shall keep forever....my high school English teacher, chaperoning my first date with Richard Harris, gifting me with my first AKC dog, the many dog shows and her wish that one day we would be on the same judging panel. ..and now she has been greeted by the many dogs that have gone before her over Rainbow Bridge...they are standing in catalog order and Miss Dorothy enters and "Ladies and Gentlemen the show has begun"" Arlene Harris, SUR-RA Salukis

Diana Hunter

June 23, 2009

What a Grand Lady MS. Nickles was, always ever so kind to me and my Irish Setters in the Obedience and Conformation Rings. Treasured my Wins under her. Sympathy to her family and may the Shamrocks Fall Softly.

Beth Aylworth and keeshonden

June 23, 2009

The dog show world mourns Miss Dorothy, a superstar to all who had the privilege of showing under her. She was unfailingly polite, and always beautiful - inside and out. I can imagine how much her students over her long teaching career must have loved and benefited from her gifts.

Jackie Blackburn

June 23, 2009

I first started showing dogs in 1974. At my first Astrohall, Miss Dorothy came by wearing her bright sweater with dogs on it, accompanied by two young gentlemen, one on each arm, and she was laughing and having a wonderful time. That is the memory I will keep forever about Miss Dorothy. She was my inspiration to try harder and be persistant. I will miss her as I know all of the Dog Community will.

June 23, 2009

Miss Dorthy will be greatly missed by all her admirers. The dog world has lost an amazing lady. She loved what she did in the show ring and it showed. Peace be with her and her family now and always. Linda Cain (Kansas City, MO)

June 23, 2009

Ellen G. Johnson

Melinda Little

June 23, 2009

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Larry and Penny Dewey

June 23, 2009

When you are one of a kind, there is only one word to describe you. You were our amazing Miss Dorothy and we loved you. The Dewey Family
Ruffian Min Pins

Sundaze Kennel Debbie & Brenda

June 23, 2009

Professional Educators have lost their "Grand Dame"...
The Dog Show World has lost their "Grand Dame"...
But the Rainbow Bridge
now has gained the only one worthy of being  their "Grand Dame"...
You will be misssed so much!   
Miss Dorothy, enjoy the creme de la creme "Best in Show" Ring... Rest in Peace...

Sandy Tremont

June 23, 2009

Mrs. Dorothy,

So many memories, so many funny stories, and so many pictures with you and our family at dog shows over a forty year time span.

We never got around to writing that book you, Bobby Peeples and I were going to write about all our time together in the dog show world. Maybe I will have to tell our story since I am the only one left.

Thank you for all the many memories and for the special attention you always gave to our daughters as they were growing up. You know you were always a favorite person to all of us.

May Heaven be everything you ever dreamed it would be.

Till we meet again,

A.J., Sandy, Tammy and Tiffany Tremont

Nancy Lee Wolf Wyrelee Kennels

June 23, 2009

Dorothy was indeed a national treasure. The dog show world will miss her greatly. I always loved watching her go over the dogs, especially the puppies. She was so gentle with them.

Nancy Lee Wolf

June 23, 2009

She was a wonderful, insightful judge who put the dogs first over the handler. I always had great respect for her.

Jo Souder

June 23, 2009

Dorothy Nickles Wehrung lived a long, full, and adventuresome life. At Carter Riverside H.S. in 1950, we knew her as a stern, efficient teacher, who never accepted less than your best. We would soon learn how pivotal her standards would become in our lives. We now know that her many successes were achieved by tireless personal determination. No student of "Miss Nickles" could ever forget her, certainly not those of us who would become career Educators.

If I lived a hundred miles away, rather than over a thousand, I would attend her Memorial Service. However, I was fortunate to have been able to share some of my thoughts with Ms Nickles by mail and a phone conversation a few years ago, for which I am grateful.

May her remaining Grand-Nieces find comfort in the vast achievements made by their Great Aunt Dorothy, as she goes to her Reward.

Sincerely,

Jo Souder, Bluffton, OH

TWC '52 -'54, B.S.'57,M.M.'70,
College-Conservatory of Music,
The University of Cincinnati
Music Educator - Oboist -
Retired 1987

Jo Souder

June 23, 2009

Dorothy Nickles Wehrung lived a long, full, adventuresome life. At Carter Riverside H.S. in 1950, we knew her as a stern, efficient teacher, who never accepted less than your best.We were to learn just how pivotal those standards would become in our lives. We now know that her many successes were achieved by tireless personal determination.No student of "Miss Nickles" could ever forget her, certainly not those of us who would become career Educators.

If I were within a hundred miles, instead of over a thousand, I would attend her Memorial Service. It was a privilege to have been able to express some of these sentiments to Ms Nickles in a letter and subsequent phone conversation, only a few years ago,
for which I am ever grateful.

May her remaining Grand Nieces find comfort in the vast achievements made by their Great Aunt,as she goes to her Reward.

Sincerely,

Jo Souder, Bluffton, OH

TWC,initially,then B.S'57, M.M.'70
College - Conservatory of Music,
The University of Cincinnati.
Music Educator/Oboist,
Retired,1987

edna johnson

June 22, 2009

What a wonderful guardian angel we have looking over us! She will never be forgotten. With Love, Edna

Jay Cy Martin

June 22, 2009

Fort Worth had many excellent teachers over the years. Miss Nickles was the best, and most caring of them all.

June 22, 2009

I had the privilege of showing under her here in Puerto Rico just a few years ago... what a LADY...she really loved what she was doing and it showed.Carmen Sifontes,Caniches Jescar.

Pam Williams

June 22, 2009

Think of how lovingly she was greeted at the Bridge by all her past students, fellow dog show enthusiasts, judges, and especially the dogs she loved.

June 22, 2009

When our van full of terriers (7) was stolen in Houston on a typical hot summer day, I saw her at the AKC table - I told her what had just happened and she handed the microphone to me - I really, really needed someone to help me, and I knew she could do it! That's why I told her - someone who had enough power to help the dogs - and the humans, too - get through the day without injury. We will always remember Dorothy Nickles' helping us out in our time of need. And to think she always made you feel like whatever your breed was also her favorite breed made it all the more enjoyable. A true Texas lady, always perfectly coiffed and dressed to the nines. I will miss you.

Rhonda McCoy, Rosswyre Kennels
Garland, TX

Linda Frank Bryant

June 22, 2009

Ms. Wehrung was an institution at Carter Riverside. I was privileged to have her as a teacher for 3 years. Her instruction has had a positive impact on my entire adult life. She will be sorely missed.
Linda Frank Bryant Class of 66

Mary-Sheba Shelton Graves

June 22, 2009

WHAT a TEACHER!!! She was the very best because she cared about the student. She taught ME and every other student in her classes that learning is a process to be cherished. She believed and taught us that learning is a lifetime endeavor. She would say, "You never stop learning."

Thank you, fine lady...you are so correct.

God Bless and keep you always.

June 22, 2009

Miss Dorothy has been one of my favorite people and one of the best judges I have had the privilege to show under for the past 20 yrs.I was fortunate enough to have her as a friend also.I know she will have many good friends and great dogs greeting her.Farwell to a Great Lady.

With love Gaye Epperson,Tyler,Tx

June 22, 2009

Miss Dorothy will always be a phenominal woman and judge. Her love for the shows and her exhibitors will always be remembered. We will miss her.
Kelly Norrish
Starfire Shih Tzu
Milton, Florida

Dennis Drysdale

June 22, 2009

I guess I was unlucky as I did not have her for English...But she was our home room teacher and she really was great to every one. I remember the first day, seeing her up close with that dark black hair and that white streak in the middle. There sure was no middle in her as I found out. It was either correct are not correct. But she was a joy and really a lot of fun. Dennis Drysdale CHS 59.

June 22, 2009

The dog show community has lost a great member. She truely was an icon in the dog world, especially to young woman in the community. Hopefully she's at the rainbow bridge smiling down, surrounded by the wagging tails of all the dog greats that have gone before her. My condolences go out to her family. She will be missed.

Jillian Ellis
Sorella Shelties and Aussies
Canandaigua NY

June 22, 2009

Mrs. Wehrung will always be one of my fondest memories of CHS. I was scared to death when I got her as a teacher my junior year but was first at her door my Senior year! Wish I had known her better-what an interesting Lady.
Pam Reeves Foster Class of '67

Michelle Pfeil

June 22, 2009

I will always remember her kindness and humor when showing to her. She had a gentle touch with dogs and was kind to newcomers in her ring. She will be missed.

Rafael De Santiago

June 22, 2009

The reason for me beeing in dogs is because Miss Dorothy Nickles was my mentor. She taught me that above all my love for the dog must be unconditional and that when judging I had to be honest with myself. That will be the only way i will be at ease my myself. I will forever love her. May she rest in peace.

Rafael de Santiago
San Juan, Puerto Rico

Jan Vernie

June 22, 2009

Mrs. Wehrung was not only my English teacher at Amon-Carter Riverside but she also taught my mom and uncle. She was known for being the hardest teacher. The price we paid for being in her class was that we took the skills learned there and have applied them the rest of our lives. I have been fortunate to reconnect with her in the dog show world these past six years. She told me that she couldn't have taught me in 69 because that would make her too old and just cracked herself up with that remark! A classic to the end. Thank you.

Jan Shaw Vernie, Carter Riverside Class of 1969

Nitsa Trayler

June 22, 2009

Miss Dorothy was one of my favorite mentors. I hope I can be as good a judge of dogs as she has been. Nitsa Trayler

Veruschka Esterrich

June 22, 2009

The dog show world has lost an icon. We were fortunate to have met and enjoy her company in dog shows in Puerto Rico. A priceless mentor...Ms. Veruschka Esterrich-Rivera of San Juan, Puerto Rico

Jerry & Linda Summersett

June 22, 2009

We have many fond memories of the times we exhibited ours dogs to Ms. Nickles. The dog show world will never be the same.

Bill and Colleen Chaffee

June 22, 2009

With the memories we have, we will never forget Miss Dorothy. Her love of dogs and people is such a legacy to leave behind. We can see her presiding over the Great Dog Show in Doggie Heaven and running her ring with a twinkle in her eye.

Rest well dear friend.

Louis Krokover

June 22, 2009

My family and I have had the pleasure of knowning Dorothy for more than fifity years and every minute with her was a breath of fresh air and learning from an expert. She always lightened up the day for us and we learned to only present to her the highest quiality of dogs that we had to show at the time. Her comments to us and others where that of a teacher doing her best to pass along all of her knowledge with positive comments and a light joke to make us feel good.

She will be missed and our sport has lost a page that can never be filled again.

She is at peace now and may her memorary last forever.

Respectfully,
Louis Krokover
Royal Kennels
Los Angeles, CA

Paula Jordan Parris

June 22, 2009

Dorothy Nickles was my sister's and my high-school English teacher at Carter-Riverside High School in Fort Worth, Texas in the 1950's. What a great impact she made on both of our lives! She was a hard teacher, but we all learned a great deal in her class, not only about English, but about developing those skills which would serve us well iin the years to come!

I remember her talking about her boxers those many years ago and heard about her passing on the Basenji list.

Godspeed, Ms. Nickles!

Beverly Robinson

June 22, 2009

GOD must have wanted a Grande & glorious lady to help Him out at the Rainbow Bridge. I know that you are up there with our beloved 4-legged friends, those that you have judged, loved & those that you have never seen before. You have always been the icon for AKC judges, your gentleness, your knowledge, your beauty shining in the ring. I was so hoping that all of us would be able to celebrate your centennial birthday, but I guess it just wasn’t meant to be. Someday, we will all meet at the Rainbow Bridge. Know that you will be greatly missed.

Beverly Henry

June 22, 2009

The dog show world has lost its National Treasure with the passing of Dorothy Nickles. She was a priceless mentor and friend.

Mark Berkel

June 22, 2009

Miss Dorothy, It was always a pleasure to be in your ring Win or lose. It was alife time ago that you, I and my dear friend Bobby Peebles had dinner together. Your loss is another hard blow to the dog fancy. Rest Well My Best in Show Friend.Mark J Berkel Marber

June 22, 2009

One of my most treasured memories is the dinner that we shared in LA in 1996. I could have listened to you forever! You leave a hole that will be impossible to fill. Your touch was felt internationally.

Lisa-Marie Ford, Ellz American Cocker Spaniels, Tasmania, Australia

June 21, 2009

I always loved it when Dorothy was on the panel for our all-breed shows. I'd steward for her whenever possible. She kept all those handlers in their places, with sharp but humorous comments! She was an excellent judge, and a credit to the sport of dog shows. Her comments under the judges' lunch tent were priceless!

Her passing leaves a big whole - there aren't many of those 'old style judges' around anymore, and the dog show sport is much poorer for her passing. I'd enter under Dorothy anytime I had the chance.

Her sense of humor will especially be missed.

Cindy Traylor
Cibola Goldens and Corgis
Az.

June 21, 2009

Ms. Dorthy will truly be missed by all the people whose lives she has touched. Her colorful clothes, her rules in the show ring and all her knowledge that she shared so freely with the dog world will be truly missed. I remember a time when my husband was in the ring and she commented to him how nice he looked in that baby blue suit. To say the least, each time from then on he wore that baby blue suit when he went in the ring with her as a judge. He has once again put on that baby blue suit and is now showing Ms. Dorthy around the BEST show ring she has ever been in. GOD bless you Ms. Dorthy.

Ginger Foreman
Freewinds Cockers
Sherwood, Ar.

June 21, 2009

Ms. Dorthy was indeed a Best in Show. Her colorful clothes, her rules, and her knowledge at the dog shows will truly be missed. I remember one time she told my husband how good he looked in the ring in his baby blue suit. Needless to say everytime he showed under her he wore that baby blue suit. He is now wearing that baby blue suit once again and showing Ms. Dorothy around the BEST Show Ring she has ever been in. She will truly be missed.

Ginger Foreman
Freewinds Cockers
Sherwood, Ar.

Scott & Kathleen Kirby

June 21, 2009

We served Miss Dorothy as stewards many times over the past 20 years, and have seen her act graciously at all times. She never missed an opportunity to teach students of all ages, including us.

Allen Odom

June 21, 2009

Miss. Dorothy, the Yellow Rose of Texas was an inspiration to us all. We will remember her kindness and never forget her.

Audrey Atherton

June 21, 2009

Miss Dorothy, how I loved showing my Pekingese to you. Always smiling, with a gentle hand -- you made my wins special. You will never be replaced. Enjoy His Kingdom.
Audrey Atherton -- Audrianne Pekingese-ROM -- Aurora Chihuahuas -- Mentor, Ohio
Psalm 145:-9-10,13,15-21 God loves all His creation and has made plans for all His children and the lesser creatures to enjoy His eternal Kingdom.

Roy Housewright

June 21, 2009

Mrs. Wehrung taught me Senior English at Carter in 1960 and was a prime reason I became a teacher in the FWISD for nearly 40 years. She was a great teacher. She also was my Vice Principal at SWHS under Dr. Frank Robinson and she was an even greater administrator. I will miss her, but know she is in a far better place now.

June 21, 2009

Dorothy was my first obedience teacher in 1970, she made us all push to do better. I know the old Tri-Cities people will miss her.

She knew we could and we did.
Sharon Creel, Burleson,Tx.

Susann Eller

June 21, 2009

I will always remember her a the best English teacher at Carter-Riverside.

Susann M. Susen-Class of 61

Donna Albro

June 21, 2009

She will be across the rainbow bridge with all the dogs who touched her heart. She was my first training director in obedience. She was tough but fair. I owe her for still remaining in the sport and judging.
Thanks, Dorothy.

Marie Bradley

June 21, 2009

Always the teacher, Ms. Nickels encouraged and taught new and old exhibitors in and out of the show ring. Not only a Texas legacy but admired by all dog show fanciers. You will be missed!!

Cindy Najera

June 21, 2009

Miss Dorothy is a true icon of the dog show world. It was an honor to stay through the end of the Reliant Shows last year just to watch her judge BIS. I purposely stayed to watch her judge that as I suspected it would be her last assignment there. I've had my fair share of showing under her, which I gained more respect for at each event. A knowledgable dog world person, a knowledgable teacher, a friend to many. We all should be so lucky to live such a full life as Miss Dorothy did. Cheers to you grand lady!

Robert McKibben

June 21, 2009

I was one of the many that was fortunate to have Ms. Nickles for an English Teacher.

Robert McKibben Carter Riverside Class of 1956

June 21, 2009

Miss Dorothy, we will miss you deeply and will always treasure your advice when we new to the world of showing our Shih Tzu. Linda Northington

June 21, 2009

It will seem so strange not to see "Dorothy" on the judging panels anymore. I have many winning photos under her and see was always pleasant. She did RUN HER RING..,.her way.
May the Shamrocks Fall Softly...
Sue Melancon
Dun Leary Irish Setters

Tom Sanderson

June 21, 2009

Miss Dorthy was a good teacher and a friendly person to be around. She taught many kids about English and life. May she rest in Peace

Karin B. Ashe

June 21, 2009

The angels will carry you forward to continue your love for all of those who passed before you. Always fondly remembered and a friend to all!

kent conwell

June 21, 2009

I'll always remember you.

kent conwell, '54

Jean Brown Reardon

June 21, 2009

Those of us who were her students at Carter-Riverside, will never forget Mrs. Wehrung. It is amazing to read of the other facets of her life and realize what a wonderful example she was of living life to the fullest. I know she will be long remembered.

Debbie Wolfenbarger

June 21, 2009

Dorothy Nickles left a lasting mark on generations of dog show people. I always enjoyed showing to her as did my daughters. Her knowledge and wit were unmatched, she will be sorely missed.
Debbie Wolfenbarger & Family, Imaje Italian Greyhounds

Linda Zaworski

June 21, 2009

I am honored and privileged to have known Miss Dorothy. The dog world was enriched by her presence and is a poorer place for her loss.

Evyonne Andrews Eddins

June 21, 2009

Dorothy Nichols (as we knew her) not only made her mark as a top notch judge within Dog Shows throughout the world, but she also make an even greater impact as a High School English Teacher. She was demanding for all to excel, and would not accept nothing less.

Not only was she firm and demanding, but also well loved and respected by her students. It was always a joy to see her year after year attending the Homccoming Events of Amon Carter Riverside High School (in Fort Worth, Texas), and will be greatly missed.

Class of 1952 former student who finally an "A"!

Mary Bayes

June 21, 2009

It was an honor to show my dogs to Miss Dorothy. She will long be remembered as a special person in the dog world.

June 21, 2009

I will never forget your English classes, Miss Dorothy---they sustained me throughout college.

James Earl '50

June 21, 2009

To myself and many more, I'm sure---she was "Miss Nickles"---educator. She was a tough, firm and fair Teacher. And we knew better NOT to learn. May God hold you close, Maam.

Dorothy Newkirk

June 21, 2009

Miss Dorothy was one of a kind and definitely Best in Show at any dog function.

Pat & Ruth Booker

June 21, 2009

What delightful memories we have of Miss Dorothy. She was a real treasure and will be missed.

Miks and Charlee Helms

June 21, 2009

Miss Dorothy, thanks for all the shows you made it a real pleasure to be at. We loved to watch you judge and be judged by you. You made us strive to present you with the best dogs we could and handle our best. We will miss you greatly. The world has lost a true ambassador for all mankind.

Joan P Scott

June 21, 2009

A most remarkable person who will be long remembered by the dog show folks and very much missed.

Colleen Murdock

June 21, 2009

Dorothy Nickles made my daughters first weekend showing in jrs a weekend to remember. She learned very quickly what an honor it was to show to her. She will be missed by so many.

Herb Kavanaugh

June 21, 2009

Miss Nickles, I thank you for the great effort you put in trying to teach me English. You certainly earned that "Teachers First Class" star in your crown and I'm thankful for it. And, most of all thanks for the fond memories.

A former student at Carter Riverside class of '50.

June 21, 2009

Miss Dorothy was a terrific woman with a heart of gold and wonderful personality. I'll miss her terribly cuz she was so special and my idol.
Chris Hubbell

June 21, 2009

Miss Dorothy was one of a kind. She was inspirational and dedicated to the world of dogs. I really loved her and her vivaciousness and she gave me a lot of encouragement over the years.
I'll miss her..............
Jere Marder
Lambluv OES

Pam Trietsch Lockmiller

June 21, 2009

Mrs. Wehrung was my English teacher at Amon-Carter Riverside High School in Fort Worth, Texas, 1965-1968. She was a very demanding teacher, but the best English teacher in the world. I feared her, but admired her greatly and always wanted to do my best for her. Due to her outstanding teaching, I minored in English and whizzed through all papers and classes. Thank you, Mrs. Wehrung, for opening the great world of literature to me. You were always my favorite teacher.

Pam Trietsch Lockmiller, Bedford, Tx

June 21, 2009

She was one of a kind. The Dog Show World has lost an icon. She will be missed the world over. What a treasure!!!

Linda Galloway
Uptown Yorkshires

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