Zorro

he's gone but will be remembered by all

04/16/2011 2:38 PM

By Bonnie McGrath

3 Comments - Add Your Comment


I love stopping in and buying cat food at Kriser's at 11th and State in the exact footprint of the old First District Police Station. The station was nestled next to the old police headquarters that we use to call "11th and State" before it was all torn down and a nice condo complex with retail on the street level took its place. Kriser's, which sells thoughtful pet products, is a friendly place and does a lot of business, thank goodness. Because I sure would hate to see it go.


In any case, one of the fun things about Kriser's is that South Michigan Avenue resident Bob Hughes--the kind of guy who you want to know your name--works there, often manning the sole cash register and, until recently, always brought his Zorro--an American Pit Bull Terrier Mix--to work with him. Zorro belonged to Bob for almost 14 years--until Zorro's death a dozen days ago.

Everyone knew Zorro. He was friendly and sweet and loving and gave his breed a good name; he showed that if a dog with the words "Pit Bull" in his title is loved and treated nicely and gently and lovingly, he can be a mentsch, a loyal friend and a trustworthy companion. I saw him many times at Kriser's and I was totally comfortable--and comforted--in his presence. Bob and Zorro were a nice pair.

Hughes treated Zorro as he would a close friend--and they lived a good life together. Bob was very involved in the South Loop Dog Park Action Cooperative, which gave birth to Grant Bark Park in Grant Park several years ago--a wonderful neighborhood amenity for dogs who want to run free with other dogs. In fact, Bob received a special honor a few years ago at the group's annual meeting.

In any case, Bob, the neighborhood and (I suspect) Kriser's will miss Zorro very much. For a touching tribute to a wonderful canine pal, please read Bob Hughes' tribute to Zorro here.


3 Comments - Add Your Comment



By Sherry & Mike from New Jersey
Posted: 04/17/2011 7:59 AM

We were extremely fortunate to meet Zorro when he traveled with his greyhound friends to Greyhounds In Gettysburg. Zorro was so sweet & gentle and made himself right at home in the sea of greyhounds that were at the event. You could clearly see the love that Zorro & Bob had for each other & I know that Bob will miss him deeply. We are keeping all who loved Zorro in our thoughts. Love & tail wags, Sherry, Mike & all our fur kids


By Mary from South Loop
Posted: 04/17/2011 1:41 AM

Zorro was an amazing boy and will be missed. He knew more people and traveled more than most humans I know.


By Lynn & Mike from Ex-urban
Posted: 04/16/2011 3:40 PM

We remember Zoro! We loved Zoro and so did our dog, Friday. Our condolences to Bob. Fondly, your old neighbors, Lynn & Mike