Eloise Heller Cherry lived a complete life with broad interests and activities. She was an athlete, having played varsity tennis at the University of California at Berkley. She was active in the American Red Cross and the San Francisco Opera Co., and a truly outstanding sports woman. She was an avid horsewoman, and a hunter, (including two African safaris) but it's safe to say that Retrievers, and especially Chesapeakes, were her primary sports interest. We don't know when she first competed in Retriever Field Trials, but it must have been more than 30 years ago. She always ran her own dogs. She owned and handled many Field and Bench Champions including the all-time high point Chesapeake. She was a finalist in four Nationals. She judged many trials including the 1975 National Amateur. She was a founder and past president of the Sagehen's Retriever Club.

The National Amateur Retriever Club was one of her interests, having served as its president. Perhaps her primary interests related to her beloved Chesapeakes. She was an officer of the American Chesapeake Club as far back as 1953; was president, director, etc., for many years and has written four books on the Breed, including the "Complete American Chesapeake".

Of significant importance, was her work with Guide Dogs for the Blind. She introduced the Chesapeake to that purpose spending many days training the dogs. She initiated the cooperative program with the 4-H Clubs in raising Guide Dog prospects. She received national recognition during the 20 years of active service with the San Rafael (California) Guide Dog Group. She served many years as president and director and was honored as Life-Time Honorary Vice President.

Eloise was a great lady - fiercely competitive - outspoken - strong in her beliefs - and with a good sense of humor. Many have and will benefit from her efforts. We who knew her and shared some of her activities will have lingering memories.

RFTN June 1984