A widely-known saying by an unknown author reads: “When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.”
Wrigley, a St. Bernard, was a beloved figure in Sun City. His gentle nature and friendly demeanor earned him the title of ‘mayor’ and ‘mascot’ of our community. His massive size was matched only by his even bigger heart, which he shared freely with everyone he met.
Wrigley the St. Bernard was a popular furry face around Sun City. Considered by many SC’s mascot, he was often referred to as “Mayor.” Sadly, the Kay family said goodbye to Wrigely on March 29. (Photo provided)
Dale and Mary Kay Monaghan’s son, Zach, brought Wrigley home from a breeder in Minnesota.
Dale said. “He was eight weeks old, 20 pounds, and he arrived on Mother’s Day.”
Mary Kay said, “He didn’t stay little for long.”
Although he was Zach’s dog that summer, he was with Dale all summer long. At the end of summer, Dale and Mary Kay drove their son to school at Minnesota State in Mankato. Dale said, “I had a hard time. I couldn’t leave Wrigley. It was hard to drive back home without Wrigley.”
“Zach played basketball in college and was on the road quite a bit. He had friends who gladly took care of Wrigley. We would go up there to watch Zach play. Finally, we decided we needed to bring him home, and Zach agreed it was best for Wrigley. He brought us and everyone so much happiness and peace,” Mary Kay said.
Wrigley’s love for Sun City was evident in his favorite pastimes. He adored the lakes here, where he would often enjoy walks with Mary Kay and Dale.
Dale said, “His favorite spot, however, was the Pavilion by the fountain, where he would rest and watch the world go by. His patience and calm demeanor were a testament to his gentle nature.”
Dale said, “Wrigley’s loving nature extended beyond our family. He could have been a therapy dog, bringing comfort and joy to many, including a family member, an aunt who was 104 years old in a nursing home. The residents there looked forward to his visits, and his presence always brought a smile to their faces.”
Wrigley participated in the Halloween costume pet event in Sun City every year. In 2020, he dressed up as an Alps Rescue Dog, but instead of brandy, he had a 2020 rare essential around his neck: toilet paper. Other years, he dressed as a superhero, a referee, and recently as a groom with his 8-pound bride, Tinker. Both won in their category.
Dale said, “The kids would love to come trick or treating at our home just to see Wrigley.”
Dale relays a story that parents and dog owners can relate to: “I just got Wrigley groomed, and we went to a dog park. He found that mud puddle in that park and started rolling around in the mud.”
Dale and Mary Kay had to say goodbye to their beloved Wrigley on March 29. Sun City residents sent cards to express their condolences and shared their memories of Wrigley.
Bob Higgins would see Wrigley from his home.
“He will be missed,” he said. “We loved seeing him out our back window.”
Todd Kane, a resident who runs often in Sun City and frequently saw Wrigley, said, “I’m so sorry. Seeing Wrigley on the trails of Sun City always put a smile on my face. Wrigley was like a four-footed mascot for the Del Webb community.”
Kathie Bell said, “He was a great dog, a family member. I am sorry to hear of your loss. He put a smile on my face when I saw him on his walks.”
Mare Roccosanto said, “We are so sad to hear this. Wrigley was everyone’s friend.”
Wrigley’s departure has left a void in the hearts of many in Sun City. We all share in this collective grief, mourning the loss of our gentle giant who brought so much joy and love to our community.
Watch the touching story, filmed by Zach: ‘Wrigley, the Best Boy,’ below.
