Lucy Lenore McCloskey

September 6, 1944-May 30, 2020

Of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. Died peacefully at her daughter and son-in-law’s home surrounded by her family.  Beloved daughter of late John Oskie and Josephine Oskie nee Salduckas. Further preceded in death by her son Ronnie McCloskey and her sisters Alberta Fein and Elenore Romano. Loving mother to Elaine (Ron) Katanick and dearest Grandma to Taylor and Lea Katanick. Further survived by her adoring dogs Sonny and Dallas.

Our Mom/Grandma/Dog Mom fought valiantly, always pleasant with a witty sense of humor. She chose to smile through the pain and sorrow. She enjoyed game night with us often – many times laughing at her losses as we celebrated her wins.

She did what she loved best which was training dogs and educating their handlers. Training with patience and positivity was the reason for her success. Many dog handlers said that because of her inspiration they began training and competing with their dogs. This continues her passion by making their lives and the lives of their canines so much better.

She found her calling in canine sports and Rally was her favorite. She became a true ambassador for it. Lucy and her Border Collie Sonny (Hamilton’s Mystic Lord of the Dance) are well known as the winners of the first AKC Rally National Championship’s Advanced Excellent class in 2014.

When asked by Barbara Fitzgerald of Borderlines magazine, ”Do you have any training secrets or techniques you would like to share?”

Lucy’s answer was: “Love your dog and take the time to train every day. For us training is just another fun thing to do. Sonny has no idea that I am trying to train him, he just thinks that his silly mom found a new trick for him to do.”

She was an amazing example of an independent woman and leaves behind a legacy of strong women in her daughter and granddaughters.

Private family service will be held and the family requests in lieu of flowers to please donate to: Merlin’s Kids @ https://www.merlinskids.org