Heartfelt thanks to Danna Boshak, one of our wonderful pre-pandemic interns turned volunteers from afar, for sponsoring this special day of sanctuary in memory of her father, Jack:
“On January 13, 2021 we lost my father, Jack Boshak. Although he hated that I was 3000 miles away in Washington state, he was nothing but supportive of my decision to go back to school to study primate behavior. He loved hearing about Boss Jamie and was getting more interested in Honey B. As the father of four daughters it’s no wonder he was drawn to the strong women at the chimp house! When I returned to Washington, the first time I went back to CSNW to make paper braids in the shed Jamie was outside on Young’s Hill staring at my car as I pulled into the parking lot. It’s like she was knew I had sad news to share with her. She invited me to take a walk with her and then challenged me to a race down the hill. Or course she won the race, but I was the winner for having that special moment with Jamie to help me through a time of grief. Thank you to all the chimps at CSNW for being such a light for me and a huge thank you to the staff for all of your hard work and for sharing your knowledge with me.”
Danna, I remember the days that you’d drive out, sequestered in the shed, graciously making enrichment for the chimpanzees, always, still, helping from afar however you can. Thank you for continuing to help make so much possible in the chimpanzees’ days and lives, and for allowing us to share in this honoring of your father. All of us here are sending you and your family all the good thoughts for your hearts to find some ease and comfort, and hopefully, moments of joyful memories today. We are thinking of you and appreciate all you’ve done to bring joy to the chimpanzees’ lives. And I’d like to think Jamie, too, is revisiting memories of summertime races around the hill with friends as she waits patiently for winter to have its say, and for spring to return.
Honey B and Mave:
Sandie Allaway says
i seem to have lost your posts here and on Facebook. want to make sure I’m in the loop. Thanks.
Linda C says
I am so sorry for your loss, Danna. Thank you for yet another contribution to bringing these chimps peace and joy, which they all return to us tenfold.
Kathleen says
Dear Danna, any friend of Jamie’s is a friend of mine. I will say that the first year of loss is the heardest. With time you’ll find the sorrow slowly dissolves and happier memories fill your heart.
Thank you for being there for our chimpanzee friends. There is no doubt in my mind that Jamie felt your sorrow. Animals have a sixth sense and I imagine Jamie’s is extra sensitive to these matters. I hope we see a post of you this spring, when the “Negra grass” is just sprouting on the hill, running side-by-side with your firned Jamie. Until then, Linda stated it beautifully — they all return to us tenfold.
(To Katelyn : I simply love that close-up series of Jamie. I need to create a print out of all of them in a row.)
Paulette says
I always say, the chimps do way more for me than what I do for them. I know that the joy of knowing them will help mend your heart.
Mary Garripoli says
My sincere condolences, Danna. This is very difficult, as I know. You honor your father with your compassionate work. Blessings to you.
Nancy D says
What a lovely tribute to your father and thank you for sharing your memories of your work at the Sanctuary.
nancyt says
Dear Danna, , what a wonderful testament to your Dad! A year gone by , & their love& memories are always a part of you. Glad you had Jamie to share your moment with. They have very good instincts. Congratulations for following your heart.
Tobin says
Danna,
Peace be with you, and with those whom you love and remember. Thank you sponsoring the sanctuary today and for sharing your poignant words. May you be consoled by the presence and friendship of that wise woman named Jamie.
Marcie says
My condolences, Danna. I’m glad Jaime was able to offer some solace and thank you for sharing this special experience with her.