You gave him the best years of his life and you had his unconditional love and all the joy he could give you in return.
RIP to your good friend and may you look back with fondness to every moment you had spent with him. He chose YOU to do that with him.
Thank you.
Many times I'd look at him and wonder, how did I become so lucky as to be his owner. He was very special. If he chose me, then I am truly honored.