Honored Members

Thurley Duck

October 12, 1928 – September 26,1997

In 1980 Thurley Duck started breeding under the kennel name Wilddeer Dalmatians.

Life Member of the Tyee Kennel Club.

Thurley was the Recording Secretary for club as long as she was a member. She was the first to volunteer for anything the Tyee Club was doing. Thurley was terrific as Show chairperson or Chief Ring Steward, whatever the club needed her to do for that year.

Tyee Kennel Club presents 'Best Puppy in Show' each Saturday in honor of the valuable contribution Thurley gave to the club.

Ann MacHemer

January 18, 1916 - August 30, 1997

In 1963 Ann started breeding under the kennel name Kurphalz – Weimaraners

First Silky Toy Terrier litter 1969 under Marengohill

First English Setter litter 1970 under Marengohill- Sunshine.

First German Shepherd litter 1973 under Marengohill

Founding and Life Member of the Tyee Kennel club

Ann was the Show Secretary for this club since the first dog show in 1974. Her skills to organize paperwork and her knowledge of the Dog Show rules were a huge asset to the club in the early years. Ann volunteered many hours to the Tyee Dog show as well as the Monday Night handling classes.

As a core member of the Tyee Kennel Club Ann is honored with the 'Best in Show' trophySaturday.

Arlene Fraser

April 12, 1934 – April 27, 2002

Arlene was a passionate and devoted member of the dog breeding and show community, leaving a lasting legacy through her work with the Tyee Kennel Club.

In 1965, she began breeding under the kennel name Dannylad, first with Irish Setters and later expanding to Pomeranians, earning respect and admiration for her dedication to the breeds.

A Founding and Life Member of the Tyee Kennel Club, Arlene contributed countless volunteer hours in various executive roles and was a familiar face at the club’s regular Monday night handling classes, where she generously shared her knowledge with others.

During her time as President of Tyee, Arlene boldly declared, “It is time this club put on a Point Show!”—a call to action that resulted in the club hosting its first Canadian Kennel Club Conformation Dog Show in 1974. Thanks to her leadership and vision, that show became a cornerstone event, and the club has continued to grow and flourish ever since.

In recognition of her immense contributions and unwavering commitment, the Tyee Kennel Club proudly presents the Best in Show award every Sunday in Arlene’s name—a fitting tribute to a woman who gave so much to the dog show world.

John Collis

May 3, 1933 – October 18, 1998

In 1965 John started “being owned by” and lasted breeding under the Samshel kennel name – Samoyeds and Shetland Sheepdog.

Life Member of the Tyee Kennel Club.

John was the club’s equipment manager for years. One of the truly thankless jobs, but he did it with a big smile. He was always the first at a Tyee Club Event, volunteering his time and manpower, and he was always the last to leave, of course after a coffee.

As a member of the Tyee Kennel Club, john was outstanding and his contribution invaluable.

In honor of John Tyee Kennel club presents High In Trial at the Performance weekend in September (Trial #1)

Gertrude Placzek

The 2005 Tyee Dog Show was dedicated to Gertrude Placzek, a founding member of the Tyee Kennel Club and a true pillar of the community.

Breeding under the Gerbert kennel name, she was known for her exceptional German Shepherds and Pomeranians.

Gertrude played a key role in establishing the club’s Obedience program and, with the support of Harriett Gonske, laid the groundwork for what would become Tyee’s ongoing tradition of Obedience classes and Trials at the Annual Show.

Her home was always open—many fondly remember gathering around her large kitchen table to ask questions about dog health, training, and behaviour. Gertrude was not only knowledgeable about dogs, but about animals in general, and she freely shared her insights with anyone who asked.

She was especially supportive of newcomers to the dog world, always offering her time, encouragement, and wisdom. Her generosity, leadership, and kindness left a lasting legacy within the Tyee Kennel Club.

Joan Haynes

Breeding under the well-known Dunrovin kennel name, Joan Haynes was dedicated to West Highland White Terriers and Cairn Terriers.

A Founding and Life Member of the Tyee Kennel Club, Joan was a steadfast presence during the club’s early years—especially through the challenging times of fundraising and growth. She was always ready to step in wherever help was needed and held several executive positions throughout her many years of service.

Joan’s commitment to the club was matched by her personal style; she never attended a club event without her signature polished look—hair and nails always done to perfection. That grace and elegance became her trademark, and her presence brought a touch of class to every gathering. Joan’s contributions, both practical and personal, are fondly remembered and deeply appreciated.

Doris Deptuch

November 9, 1935 - October 6, 2003

The 2004 Tyee Dog Show was dedicated to the memory of Doris Deptuch, a beloved and long-time member of the Tyee Kennel Club. A Life Member,

Doris bred under the respected kennel name Swiftwind, known for her elegant Afghan Hounds and Standard Poodles.

She generously gave her time and energy to the club, contributing in countless ways behind the scenes. Doris had a gift for noticing what others overlooked, often guiding the club with her honesty and insight.

She was also a major force behind the creation of Tyee’s famous raffle baskets, which became a much-anticipated tradition. Doris’s loyalty, hard work, and sense of humour made her a treasured part of the Tyee family. She is deeply missed and truly, “Never to be forgotten by those of us so fortunate to have known her.”