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ANYA LEA VASILIS DOBRATZ
ANYA LEA VASILIS DOBRATZ
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ANYA DOBRATZ Obituary
Age 34, of Swissvale, PA, passed on January 22nd, 2020. She was the daughter of Cynthia Johansson Vasilis of Brackenridge, PA and Stelios Vasilis of Athens Greece. She is survived by her mother, father; brother, Johnny Vasilis; and husband, Eric Dobratz. Anya was a breeder of German Shepherd Dogs and a skilled dog show handler for many breeds. Anya was well known in the Pittsburgh bicycle community and was a skilled mechanic at several of the bicycle shops in the area. She loved sea food and cheap yellow beer. Friends received for a memorial gathering on February 8, 2020 from 12 noon-2 p.m. at the THOMAS L. NIED FUNERAL HOME INC., 7441 Washington Street, Swissvale. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Orangeburg County, SC Animal Control and shelter via PayPal using [email protected]. www.niedfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Casey Biederman
January 23, 2025
I miss you every day
Jamie Nicole
November 24, 2024
Anya was one of the first people to ever make me feel like I mattered. She did that for a lot of people, she made you feel like you mattered.
I miss her so much and I´d love to have her to talk to right now with all the crap I´m going through. She was always the best person to talk through anything with, crap going on, gross foods, bugs,... it felt like she had lived such a long time, even when she was only 16. Okay I´m rambling and I really miss Anya so much right now.
Jamie Nicoke
November 24, 2024
Anytime you talked to Anya was a special moment. She was a friend you were blessed to know. I miss her sooo much!
Sherry Kenachu
January 23, 2024
I think of Anya so often. Even 4 years later she´s still in my thoughts. I was just getting to know her better the last couple of years before she passed. With us living on the opposite side of the country we´d only see each other at the National.
She accomplished so much in her short life in showing dogs. I often wonder what more she could have done had she not been taken from us so soon. Whenever I think of her I think of her with her beloved dog, Cowboy.
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Daisy Owen
January 23, 2024
I think of her often when I look at my German Shepherd from her fabulous boy, Cowboy! I didn't know or ever meet her but I know she was a real gem and a great friend to many! She's deeply missed!
Casey B
January 23, 2024
Not a day goes by that I don't think of you, the impact you had on my life, and on the life so many others. You are missed.
Christine
January 23, 2023
She was abeautiful person and I miss her so dearly
Kathleen Conley
January 23, 2021
It is so difficult to believe it has been a year since you left us. I miss talking with you, laughing with you and just spending time with you. I will never forget you. Hold Cowboy tight and know you are in my thoughts.
Cynthia Vasilis
February 14, 2020
My bright, shining star is Anya, my daughter.
Words cannot express my sorrow over the loss of her place on this Earth.
I am so grateful for the loving words of her friends in the dog show world, as this was the love of her life; and of her friends outside the ring as well.
Anya loved dogs from the moment she identified their being, at a very young age - say two or three. She devoured books on dogs.
We gave her a Norwegian Elkhound when she was eight and by the time she was ten, she and her dog were ready for the show ring !
The rest is history ... her weekends were booked
We may not be able to see her, but she is around. A mother can feel this.
We will all be together one day
Thank you to all whom's hearts have been touched by Anya
Joyce Ainsworth
February 7, 2020
To Anya's husband & family, my deepest sympathies go out to you. I never had the pleasure of meeting Anya personally, but I know Anya will truly be missed by so many from the dog show world and the German Shepherd world. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Anya and Cowboy Butler Fairgrounds 2016
Casey Biederman
February 6, 2020
Playing with dogs, Frick Park 2013
Casey Biederman
February 6, 2020
Casey Biederman
February 6, 2020
Anya was such a special and important friend to me, and to so many others. She had the unique ability to bring people together, to change minds, to teach and to help. The passion that drove her in all she did effortlessly ignited passion in all those that she shared with. Her friendship persisted through varying points and changes in my life. She altered the course of our friendship and my entire life when she decided to share and invite me into "the other side" of her world, the world of dogs, which now is such a huge part of my world too. Not many people have such a profound effect on so many. Anya did. I will forever be grateful to her and will forever miss her so much.
Maggie Dudley
February 4, 2020
To the family of Anya.... my dearest condolences go out to each and everyone of you. Anya was an amazing person and it was a real honor to get to know her. She will forever be in my heart along with very much missed at the dog shows. I hope i can remember some of what she taught me and do her proud at shows. My heart aches for each of you.
Sincerely,
Maggie Dudley.
The House of Maddison
February 4, 2020
My deepest heartfelt condolences to Anya's family and to all who loved her and were blessed to have her in their lives. Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart
Glenn Davis
February 3, 2020
Nick, Eileen and Eric
Donna and I are so sorry for your loss. Our most sympathetic thoughts are with you.
Kitty Bailey
February 2, 2020
Dear Eileen and Nick,
My sympathy to you on the loss of your daughter-in-law., Anya. It sounds like she had a real gift with her German shepherd dogs! She was a beautiful young woman who was taken much too young. You and the rest of her family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kitty
I will be forever thankful for the amazing GSDs Anya shared with me. She was a once in a life time kind of friend and mentor <3
Jenna Coleman
February 2, 2020
Pat Pillitteri
January 31, 2020
She was like a bright shooting star, that blazed across the sky, dazzling people in her wake. Then all to soon, vanished from sight, leaving a spectacular memory.
Betty J Johnson
January 31, 2020
Anya was a once in a lifetime friend and experience. So talented and yet the most humble, unassuming, kind person. Witty and knowledgeable in so many areas, some quite surprising. A star who shone so bright and has left her imprint on many hearts. Prayers of comfort for for her Mum, Dad, Brother and all who loved her. Anya and Cowboy a team again in the most glorious ring of all at the Golden Gates.
Valerie Davies
January 30, 2020
Only knowing Anya through dog show Facebook groups, I know she was wise and friendly. Seeing the outpouring of love from the dog show community affirms to me how special Anya was. Rest peacefully with your Cowboy.
Celine Nista
January 30, 2020
I was deeply saddened when I learned of this tragedy last week involving Anya. I did not know her well, but I certainly do know her husband Eric; and I know how happily married they were. I can't even imagine how painful this is for not only him, but her parents & entire family. She was taken from everyone & her beloved animal friends all too soon. My deepest sympathy goes out to all of you at this extremely difficult time in your lives.
Margaret O'Neill
January 30, 2020
Prayers with this candle burning you are blessed & reunited with Cowboy & all your previous loves!!
Margaret O'Neill
January 30, 2020
Prayers for my Special friend who left us all too soon!! Will keep you in my heart & remember you always!!
Lark & Anya - that day!!
Vicky Warner
January 29, 2020
Gone too soon, too young.
You were vibrant, unique, and showed your love for life, the dogs, and critters in all you did!
Even though I've only known you a short time, I will be forever grateful for what you did for Lark in persevering to get her Championship, even when I would get discouraged. You will be sorely missed by all, especially your Wiggles.❤
My sincere condolences to your family/friends at this difficult time.
Marilyn Scott
January 29, 2020
Anya was a wonderful person and a dear friend for over a decade. I loved her like a sister and will miss her every day. I'm just so grateful to have had her in my life.
January 29, 2020
She was one of a kind! What a character through and through! Lover of animals.....especially German Shepherds! She will be greatly missed! I will miss her quick humor and funny smile! Rest in Sweet Peace, Anya!
Mary Withrow
January 29, 2020
Cynthia, I am so sorry to read this sad news. I'll be thinking of you in the coming days and praying for each day to get maybe just a little bit easier for you. Too young.
With much sympathy and love,
Mary
The best hug - Anya and Cowboy
Diane Strasser
January 29, 2020
Will miss Anya. She was true to herself, dedicated to what she loved, giving, kind and honest. Anya was so bright and well read; I don't know if many realized just how "self-educated" Anya really was. I loved our back-and-forth of random literary quotes, some from some very obscure works. She always "got it." A good soul whose heart and wit will live forever.
Donna Stekli
January 29, 2020
I didn't know Anya but saw her around the dog shows in VA,MD,PA,WV. From reading about her, she was truly an up & coming preservation breeder, show dog handler, dog show fanatic and good person. It is sad to lose someone of such stature. Rest in Peace & sincerest condolences to your family & friends & the dogs who were close to you.
Amber Honnagondanahalli
January 29, 2020
This still is just a bad dream. I will miss our chats. The world will miss you and your kindness.
Heather
January 29, 2020
Anya was an incredible human, proud to have called her my friend. A breath of fresh air at dog shows, and lover of isopods.
She will be missed by me and the mutts.
Condolences to her family.
Vicki Burkey
January 29, 2020
It was a very sad day when I heard of your passing. Seems like I've known you forever, we are Scorpio sisters! You where one of a kind..."larger-than-life". I will miss seeing you at the shows and our talks. My last message to you was "I'll be needing you this Spring to handle puppies". RIP my friend...you are loved by many & will be missed.
Karen Hynek
January 29, 2020
Condolences to Anya's Family. It is a great loss and she will be missed immensely.
Toni Nelson
January 29, 2020
My condolences to her family. Anya was one of a kind and will not ever be replaced. She is now reunited with her "Cowboy" and mentor Leslie. They are probably taking their new world by storm. God bless you Anya, we will miss you greatly.
January 29, 2020
We will miss our evenings with you at our camper discussing dogs. Hope you are with Cowboy.
Diana Grave
January 29, 2020
You were an amazing person!! We all miss you and that's why you see all the sad faces! See you later dear friend.
Tina Bogdanich
January 29, 2020
Jovi & I will miss you baby girl. Until we meet again.
Kristine M Fasano
January 29, 2020
We lost a very special person that we will not be able to replace. Sympathy to all close to her.
Two Best Friends hanging out!
Sherry Kenachu
January 29, 2020
I knew Anya through the German Shepherd Dog community. We were Facebook friends first then met at a National. As I got to know her I found her to be a funny, intelligent, caring young woman and I enjoyed being around her. I wish I could have known her better but she was taken way to soon from us. I will remember her fondly. And when I think of her it will be her saddling up to a bar with her beloved Cowboy having a few brewskies and something seafood. ( * I didn't take this picture but it is one she posted and I loved it) Rest In Peace my precious friend. And give Cowboy a hug for me.
Debbie Butt
January 29, 2020
May God hold you and protect you
Judy DeRousse
January 29, 2020
Anya was a breath of fresh air to all the GSD people. So very passionate & always showing her dogs the very best she could. I admired her spirit. Condolences to her family & friends.
Kathy Garcia
January 29, 2020
You touched so many lives in the very best of ways during your short time here on earth. Dance with your dogs on the other side. Thank you for being you. You are so deeply missed.
Denise Fox
January 29, 2020
I always admire Anya. She was a leader in life and lived life to the fullest. She will be missed by so many people.
Laura Stanton
January 29, 2020
Laura Stanton
January 29, 2020
Laura Stanton
January 29, 2020
While I didnt know Anya, clearly she was well respected by her peers in the dog show community. These photos I took of her down in Brooksville of her showing Jax in the group are for her family and friends to remember her by. If they need high resolution images of these, please contact me [email protected] Rest In Peace
Debbie Ervin
January 29, 2020
Anya you are missed by so many. I'm going to miss our friendship, and we all are going to miss your posts. You are an inspiration to so many. and a huge advocate for our breed. You enjoyed life doing what you loved to do. Hoping you are meeting with your Cowboy! RIP sweet girl and please watch over us.
Tammy Peterson
January 29, 2020
Anya you are missed by so many people, whether it be the ones who knew you personally, in passing, or just social media friends.
Denise King
January 29, 2020
I did not know you well but I remembered you well. You lit up a room and your love of dogs stood out in all you did.
Test in peace...
Denise King
Annette Sexton
January 29, 2020
She was a kind person. I first met her with the Beauceron she had so very long ago at the Specialty. We saw each other at shows, and she was always kind, cheering me and my girl on every time. She was just genuine, kind, and so funny. She will truly be missed.
Sue Mayborne
January 29, 2020
I never got the privilege of meeting Anya, but I feel I know her through her love of dogs and her wonderful smile. Prayers sent to family and friends for healing. Let Anya stay in your hearts forever.
January 29, 2020
Anya you were taken way to soon, you had so much more to do and be. You lived your life to the fullest, you touch so many lives and so many will miss you. Rest in Peace and hug your Cowboy.
Patti Cross
January 29, 2020
Gone way too soon.
Jennifer Hartman
January 29, 2020
VHH dachshunds will miss you <3
Mary Tropeck
January 29, 2020
Anya certainly loved her dogs and was always willing to help at the dog shows. Anya will be missed. Prayers for the family.
Anya and the small boy
JENNIFER HARTMAN
January 29, 2020
Donna Olmstead
January 29, 2020
Anya was a shining light in this world. She was a rising star in the dog show world with only more great things to come, but even more than that, she was a great friend and inspiration to many. She was never too busy to lend a hand, offer advice, share inspiration, or offer a shoulder or a helping hand. Anya will be greatly missed as now she is with her beloved German Shepherd Cowboy.
Christine chapin
January 29, 2020
Anya ,I am trying to find the words ... Love you ❤❤until we meet again .....give Cowboy a big hug from me
Megan
January 29, 2020
You'll be missed, buddy.
Too soon.
DJ Rossman
January 29, 2020
Anya was always one of the funniest people in the room. I haven't seen or spoken to her in years, but she was one of my favorite people during high school. My condolences to her family, friends and husband...
Anya and Auggie! We were making plans for this WGSL boy!
Tari Kridler (Kridler German Shepherds)
January 29, 2020
Anya and I have fun at Canfield dog show!
Tari Kridler (Kridler German Shepherds)
January 29, 2020
Plan to attend!❤
Tari Kridler (Kridler German Shepherds)
January 29, 2020
Joan Huber
January 29, 2020
How u loved my Sel. Ch. Ambers Honey Comb Of Jo-Els.Thanks again for taking her to the National..And thanks for taking care of Ch, Ambers Roses R Red for me. Red loved u..
The Three Yinzers
Bob Hallahan
January 29, 2020
So glad to have known you and to be considered a friend. Thank you for our talk, it meant more than you will ever know, but somehow you knew.....godspeed friend until we see each other again. My Dad loves you too! #Yinzersforlifeandbeyond!!
Jessica McRae
January 29, 2020
You will be so missed.
Kathy Conley
January 29, 2020
I miss sending her messages on Facebook and her funny responses. I miss her wit, humor and knowledge. She was an amazing person.
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7441 Washington Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15218
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