Mike Adler

It is with great sadness that we inform you that Mike Adler passed away after a series of health problems. Mike’s passing comes only seven months after his loving wife, Connie, passed away in April, and just one week after his beloved hearing service dog, Wilson, passed away. Mike was not just a volunteer trainer, he played an integral part in starting Diamond Dogz and running it.  

Over the past 10 years of time with Mike, he became a dear friend and confidant.  He helped dozens of students and their dogs over the years - helping them become certified service dog teams.  We used to call Mike "The Dog Whisperer” as he was so good at putting dogs at ease and all the dogs loved him.  Mike, Wilson, and I saw each other almost weekly and over that time he gave me some sound advice that I’ll never forget.  He always told me that if there is something I want to do, “DO IT NOW” because you never know when your life circumstances will change.  He always said “Do one thing at a time, and do it well.”  I will miss our lunches together and miss that he always ordered TWO slices of sausage and mushroom pizza, a small caesar salad, and a diet soda and then said “I should really only have one,” while he patted his belly.    

I will miss my time with Mike and Wilson but am comforted to know that Connie and Wilson are waiting for him at the gates of heaven.  

- Kristi Nolde-Morrissey, founder Diamond Dogz of Arizona