I wasn't quite sure how to write this, but I felt compelled to honor Oskee on my blog since he passed away on Monday. Oskee was the faithful friend and companion of my good friend Joanne. I first met Oskee when Joanne came to live as house mom at 4-H House when I was a junior in college. After college, whenever I would make trips to Quincy to visit Joanne, we would plan our outings and walks around Oskee. He loved to flirt with the girl dogs in the neighborhood, get TCBY "ice cream," visit Petsmart, and of course watch the Illini. I'll always remember his trick for "Dee for three!" For many years, Joanne had thought about writing a book about Oskee and their stories on campus. Her dream came true a few years ago when she decided to self-publish, and I agreed to come along as Oskee's personal photographer. "Oskee in Illini Land" was born, and I am so happy now to have a great way to remember Oskee for many years to come. I'm going to get out my copy right now, and read it with my son Maximus tonight. Rest in peace, Oskee!