The Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) is profoundly saddened by the passing of Phyllis Wolfish, a shining star in the Canadian dog fancy, who touched the lives of many, far and wide. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Phyllis’ family and friends during this difficult time and we wish them peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Phyllis was a dedicated CKC member for 61 years and had the distinction of being the Past Honourary Chair of the CKC. A passionate breeder, Phyllis raised and showed top Miniature and Toy Poodles under the “Ma Griffe” prefix for over 60 years. She also bred and showed champion Whippets, in addition to handling Doberman Pinschers and Lhasa Apsos.The Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) is profoundly saddened by the passing of Phyllis Wolfish, a shining star in the Canadian dog fancy, who touched the lives of many, far and wide. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Phyllis’ family and friends during this difficult time and we wish them peace and comfort in the days ahead.
A devoted advocate for the purebred dog community, Phyllis was a respected All-Breed Judge, renowned both in Canada and internationally. She was also approved by The Kennel Club to judge Standard and Toy Poodles, and Shih Tzu. Her judging career took her around the world, giving fanciers on many continents the opportunity to get to know and love her.
Phyllis left an indelible mark on the purebred dog world, with her unwavering commitment and incredible achievements. She was an inspiration to all and here we share some of the messages we have received in her memory:
"With Phyllis' passing, sadly we have lost a real icon in our sport, and I, for one, feel privileged to have known her. Many of us were fortunate to have memories of Phyllis not just as an all-breed judge, but also in a social setting. I will never forget the barbecue at the house, the 90th birthday party, Phyllis' presentation as Honourary Chair at the 2018 CKC AGM, and dinner at the house at the end of November. Phyllis was a true lady in every sense of the word, and will be sadly missed by many."
- Joan Bennett, Chair of the CKC Board
“Since I began showing dogs in the mid 70s the name of Phyllis Wolfish was familiar as a well-respected breeder and judge. Many years later in 2010 we had her on our panel of judges in Quebec City. Phyllis was wearing a dress and a light scarf. She had such a dignified posture, a true lady. Since I joined the Board, I had the opportunity to get to know her on a more personal level; I was impressed by her memory and how she was still passionate about dogs. Farewell Mrs. Wolfish, I will remember your spirit and your love of dogs.”
- Linda St-Hilaire, CKC Director Zone 3 (Quebec)
“Phyllis was always gracious and very much a lady. She was very stylish and always had a smile for every exhibitor when she was judging.”
- Sharon Derrick, CKC Director Zone 10 (Alberta, NWT & Nunavut)
“I have many memories of Phyllis, dating back to the 1980s when CKC was located in Bloor West Village. A real connoisseur of all the finer things, I recall that Phyllis loved to frequent the delis and European bakeries, as well as the clothing and jewelry shops. I remember her elegance, her poise, and her wonderful, infectious joie de vivre.”
- Diane Draper, CKC Regulatory Manager
“Over the years, I got to know Phyllis – she was always a joy to speak with; a kind, cheerful, gentle soul, she always had a smile and looked wonderful. Phyllis bred and showed dogs under the Ma Griffe prefix during her 60 years of CKC membership. I had the great opportunity to spend time with her at CKC’s AGM in Ottawa last June, where I was once again taken with her refinement. She will be deeply missed by many in Canada and around the world.”
- Leila Bahorie, CKC Director of Registration and Membership Services