It is with great sadness that I must inform you of the passing of Mary Ellen Fishler. We prayed for a miracle cure so that she would stay with us longer, but it was not meant to be.

Mary Ellen was a lifelong breeder of Toy and Miniature Poodles. She bred many AKC Champions under the Camelot and Halcyon prefixes. Many of her Poodles achieved National recognition and contributed elegance and intelligence to other Poodle families.

She was also a gifted writer and relentless worker. Mary Ellen cared for and promoted Meet the Breeds and the Juniors’ Program, which encourages young people to embrace the sport of pure-bred dogs. Even as she endured the ravages of cancer, she never gave up or missed a meeting. She always had new ideas and suggestions to promote PCA and the breed that she loved.

For over ten years she served on the Board of the Poodle Club of America and was an active Delegate to the American Kennel Club. She supported our National Show working and chairing many of the committees and activities. In addition, she was a vital and integral part of the Washington Poodle Club. Mary Ellen will be missed. Her suffering is over and she is at peace.

On a personal and presidential level, I will miss her terribly. Mary Ellen was an excellent mentor and always willing to give all of us guidance and support. Let us join together to remember her and celebrate her life.

Susan T. Burge, President of the Poodle Club of America