In Loving Memory of Janine Walker-Keith August 16, 1950 – January 25, 2024

Janine Walker-Keith of Incandescent Collies in 1980.

Janine with "Scamp" in 1977, the year that she and Dale were married.

Janine Walker-Keith was a name synonymous with excellence, passion, and finesse in the Collie world. From my earliest days in the breed during the 1980s, I knew of her Incandescent Collies in Southern California—an illustrious legacy marked by brilliance and beauty. She bred and exhibited a multitude of champions, including CH Incandescent Limited Edition, CH Incandescent Black Gold, CH Incandescent Brazen Blond, Incandescent of Paradice, Incandescent Foolish Frills, and 2006 Collie Club of America Best of Breed winner CH Kadon Bethany’s Gospel.

CH Incandescent Black Gold (1983)

2006 CCA Best of Breed winner CH Kadon Bethany’s Gospel with Janine, Judge Anne Cross and breeder-owner Kathy Hunt-Murad.

Janine’s guiding inspiration was the Brandwyne Collie bloodline. Her devotion to excellence was unwavering: elegance, outline, and precise head detail were non-negotiable elements in her breeding program. She cherished correspondence from Collie legends like Trudy Mangels and Glen Twiford, preserving their letters as treasured mementos of her lifelong journey in the breed.

Glen Twiford, Windcall Collies, collie legend and dear friend of Janine's.

I first had the privilege of truly knowing Janine at the 1997 Collie Club of America National Specialty in Reno, Nevada. She and Dennis Fyda graciously shared their room with me during the heady days of Gina—the top winning Ch. Aurealis Charidan Regina—whom Janine expertly campaigned to multiple Best in Show wins and the pinnacle of Collie rankings.

CH Aurealis Charidan Regina (1997) and Judge Joe Purkhiser

Our friendship blossomed over shared adventures, countless wins, and cherished evenings with new Collie friends. Traveling with Janine to CCA Nationals across the country created memories I will always treasure. Her meticulous grooming, flawless presentation, and razor-sharp political acumen made her an unstoppable force in the ring. Her attention to detail and strategic mastery propelled her to the top of the breed standings, time and again.

Janine’s sense of humor was legendary—wickedly sharp, always ready with a clever quip. She was fiercely loyal to her friends, but heaven help anyone who crossed her path.

The San Diego Collie Club, her beloved specialty show, remains the most extraordinary show I have ever experienced. She orchestrated every detail with passion and precision. Set just steps from the beach in Carlsbad, California, the show featured handpicked, esteemed judges, sumptuous velvet-draped tables, dazzling trophies, and thoughtful giveaways. Who could forget Dale’s famous chili, always a homemade delicious cake, and, of course, Janine’s heartfelt tributes to Collie legends we had lost?

SDCC photo collage from 2013 show.

SDCC's very own Chili Men, (L-R) Geno Leckron, Sid, and Head Cook Dale Keith, Janine's husband.

Janine's tribute to Al and Helene Forthal of Shoreham Collies in 2006.

Janine with Al and Helene Forthal.

Janine’s dedication to Southland Collie Rescue was unparalleled. At each SDCC show, her legendary raffles raised funds to help Collies in need. Her joyous Parade of Rescue Collies, complete with ribbons and applause for all, exemplified her generous heart and deep love for the breed.

Southland Collie Rescue (2007)

Southland Collie Rescue (2013)

Please join us in celebrating the remarkable life of Janine Walker-Keith: Saturday, February 22, 2025 | Noon to 3 PM | Magee Park, 258 Beech Ave, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Kindly RSVP to Jackie Barikhan at bellagioc@aol.com

Those who touch our lives stay in our hearts forever.

Janine with Lassie in 2002 at the CCA National Specialty in Riverside, California.

by Jackie Barikhan :: Bellagio Collies and Toy Poodles

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