On February 15, one of Aspen Valley’s most recognized faces informed us that it was time for him to go.
Tony Grant has been a fixture at the sanctuary for over 16 years, giving more than could be expected of any regular human being. But, then, Tony is not just any regular human being. He’s special, and the sanctuary is going to miss him.
Tony’s contributions to the sanctuary were enormous. He joined us at a time when we needed direction, and he was there to provide it at every step along the way. Virtually every day, he was out there riding Doris (that’s our dearly departed excavator), building bear pens, nursing moose calves, running for supplies, going out on midnight rescues, teaching youth about the need to respect our environment and wildlife, or walking the trail system with visitors. His big smile and even bigger heart will is legendary.
No one deserves to take a rest more than Tony, and we wish him all the very best. While he may not be here at the sanctuary in the flesh, his presence is always felt. As we look around this wonderful place, we see Tony everywhere.
On behalf of all the people who have had the privilege of knowing and working with Tony, we thank him. And from all the animals he has rescued, cared for, loved and released – thank you.
Julia McLaren, general manager, on behalf of the board of directors of the Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary