My Best Friend and Soul Cat, Rocky

On March 28, 2024, my beloved Rocky crossed the Rainbow Bridge at the age of 18. My best friend, my soul cat — he was more than just a pet; he was a piece of my heart.

Rocky found me at PetSmart in June 2006. Among many cats waiting for a home, he chose me. The moment I held him, I knew our lives were meant to intertwine. I adopted Rocky and brought him home on July 4, 2006 — how fitting that he gained his freedom from a cage on the very day we celebrate independence.

At first, I didn’t think much about the depth of our bond or what it would become. All I knew was my commitment to care for him for as long as time allowed. But as the days turned into months, then months into years, Rocky became my source of unconditional love, joy, humor, and companionship. That connection formed quickly and only grew stronger.

Though I’ve always loved cats, Rocky was my one-in-a-million. Each morning, he greeted me by licking my head while purring softly. Every evening, he waited by the door for me to return home. His love for me was pure and unwavering. I must have told him I loved him a million and one times — never enough, never sufficient to capture the depth of my feelings. Every single day with him was a privilege.

The only thing Rocky loved as much as me was food. Canned food, dry food, my food — any food, really! In his eyes, all food was cat food, and I was always happy to share as long as it was safe for him.

There is no word that truly captures my love for Rocky. He adored everyone he met, and judging by the compliments people gave him, it was mutual. He spoke to me every day—many times a day. I miss his voice. I miss the feel of holding him, the way he purred instantly when I touched his soft, fluffy fur. I miss everything about him.

Though my eyes fill with tears as I write this, I’m also smiling, remembering the laughter, the warmth, the joy he brought into my life. His absence has left a hole that can never be filled. But without FosterCat, I might never have known the profound love and friendship that Rocky gave me.

Until we meet again, my Rocky Boy. I love you more than I could ever express, and I will miss you every day of my life until we are together again. Until that day, I trust that good St. Francis is caring for you.

I love you furever.