I had tears reading the story, then I saw the picture and I lost it!!
Shepherds are so close to my heart, actually, they ARE my heart. Every last one of them!
Oh I'm so sorry you only had a few short years with him, and for him to be taken form you like that. I'm so sorry!
(Neither of my babies came from a breeder, Sierra came from a GSD rescue and Buddy from a shelter.)