Remembrances
Lloyd Simmons of Lonnkyle Irish Wolfhounds and Scottish Deerhounds
Photo by Angela Knight photo
Lloyd Simmons peacefully passed away on January 21, 2023 at the age of 72. Born April 16, 1950, and is survived by his son Dustin Simmons, Dustin’s partner Adrienne Wawrykow, and grandchildren Bowen Lloyd Simmons and Kaia Rae Simmons.
Lloyd was a founding member of the Northstar Irish Wolfhound Club and was very committed to the Club. He always showed up with his beautiful pack of Irish Wolfhounds to compete at the NIWC Specialty and never left empty handed! He was a knowledgeable Irish Wolfhound and Scottish Deerhound breeder since 1984. Lloyd whelped his first litter and produced a puppy that went on to win Best of Opposite at the 1988 IWCA National Specialty. A producer of many champions over the years and a fierce competitor.
Lloyd got his first Irish Wolfhound in 1970 while in college. He loved the breed and the sport of showing dogs! Anyone who knew Lloyd can say he was a true sportsman and gentleman, dressing in tailored suits, and always wore a hat at the specialty shows. As the story goes, he packed a tux for every specialty show he attended, just in case he won. A true friend indeed, that he was willing to loan his tux out to any friend that needed one…. if they beat him! One year, he did this for his long-time friend of 46 years, Lynn Simon. His friends were important to him and for years Lloyd traveled to shows with Joel Mattson and Lynn Simon. Gretchen Bernardi referred to them as the “Three Amigos!” They remained friends for many years through the good and the bad times. Fortunately, they were all together one last time before Lloyd's passing for a final farewell. Lloyd was always willing to help others interested in the breed with the years of knowledge he had acquired. As a long time, ambassador for the breed, he was adamant for upholding the true breed standard of the Irish Wolfhound and the Scottish Deerhound.
Lloyd was known worldwide for his outstanding breeding program. He was presented the Breeder of Record Award for his exceptional contribution to the purebred dog fancy in Canada. He was awarded the distinguished Sportsman of the Year for the IWCA recently. His exemplary breeding program produced Irish Wolfhounds and Scottish Deerhounds that embodied breed type, sound temperament, and outstanding health. Both of his breeds competed in specialty shows in the United States as well as Canada and the United Kingdom. In 2019 Lloyd was awarded the coveted Best of Breed title at the IWCA National Specialty.
We of the Northstar Irish Wolfhound Club will miss Lloyd’s friendship, sportsmanship, and passions for the Irish Wolfhound. His advice, knowledge, and encouragement will remain with all breeders of the sport for years to come.......
That will always remain the legacy of our friend, Lloyd Simmons.
Lynn Simon
In Memory of Joel Samaha
Photo by Sue Stobart
The Wolfhound world lost a kind, caring, knowledgeable, and legendary figure.
I first met Joel in 1975, and through him got my first Wolfhound. He was my first mentor. I’ve known his family for almost 50 years.
After a long illness, Joel passed away on December 16, 2024 in the afternoon holding the hand of his ex-wife Jennifer.
I visited Joel with two Wolfhounds, Kenya, and Sammy on October 24th at his home in Minnetonka. His last Wolfhound came from Rockhart kennels.
Joel was known throughout the Wolfhound world here and abroad and judged internationally. His book, The New Irish Wolfhound, almost every breeder has. His guide to judging is what is used in judging throughout the world.
His dog, Meadowbrook Sir Lancelot won our national specialty. His dogs were Winners Dog, and the brother was Reserve Winners Dog!
Joel was a lawyer and taught criminal justice at the University of Minnesota where he was given emeritus status. His classes were always filled to standing room only. He was an amazing speaker. And even if you weren’t in his class, you came to just listen.
Unfortunately, we will no longer hear his great stories, but we will have the memories!
Rest in peace, Professor Joel Samaha.
Lynn Simon
