Honoring Tuki: The Heart Behind LilTuki.com
On November 17, 2007, a beautiful light entered the world in the form of a tiny Yorkshire Terrier named Tuki. LilTuki® was born from his spirit, his love, and the unforgettable mark he left on our lives.
In March 2008, my husband Rick and I crossed Puget Sound on the Edmonds–Kingston ferry to receive what we thought was a puppy—but what we were truly given was family.
A woman handed me a blue blanket and said simply,
“Here’s your new baby.”
From that moment forward, Tuki wasn’t just our Yorkie—he was our heart.
A Yorkie Who Changed Everything
From ferry rides and forest hikes to kayaking adventures throughout the Pacific Northwest near Sultan, Washington, Tuki became a companion like no other. He had a fearless spirit, endless curiosity, and a heart so full of love it disarmed everyone he met.
Friends, neighbors, and even strangers felt it—
Tuki was special.
He carried himself with classic Yorkie confidence, a signature strut, and a joyful wiggle that could turn even the hardest day into light.
I called him Pinocchio, believing one day he’d become a real little boy.
In every way that mattered, he did.
Seventeen Years of Unconditional Love
For 17 beautiful years, Tuki was my shadow, my comfort, and my constant. He knew me better than anyone—especially in moments of sadness, anxiety, or uncertainty. He never let darkness linger.
As the years passed, his black-and-tan coat softened into warm tan and silver-gray, but his spirit never faded.
In November 2024, age gently caught up with him. Though he lost his sight and hearing, his appetite and heart remained strong.
On Thanksgiving Day 2024, after a sudden fall and a heartbreaking veterinary visit, we were faced with the most difficult goodbye imaginable.
That day, my heart went with him.
A Resting Place Filled With Beauty
Tuki now rests in our garden, lovingly built by Rick—surrounded by wildflowers, hummingbirds, butterflies, and the peaceful sound of a cascading waterfall.
He is still home.
He is still everywhere.
The LilTuki® Brand Origin Story
From Love to Art: Why LilTuki Exists
LilTuki® is more than a brand—it’s a legacy.
This site was created as a tribute to Tuki and to every person who has ever loved a Yorkie, a dog, or a pet who became family.
Every illustration, character, product, and story shared here is inspired by:
- The joy pets bring into our lives
- The deep bond between humans and their dogs
- The playful, mischievous, loving spirit unique to Yorkies
LilTuki® celebrates personality, humor, emotion, and memory through art.
What You’ll Find at LilTuki.com
At liltuki.com, you’ll discover:
- Original Yorkie-inspired artwork and characters
- Personalized pet portraits created from your photos
- Unique gifts, prints, apparel, and collectibles for dog lovers
- Story-driven art that honors pets as family
Each piece is created with heart, intention, and storytelling at its core.
A Dedication to Every Yorkie Lover
LilTuki® is a love letter to Tuki—but it’s also for you.
For everyone who has been loved by a Yorkie.
For everyone who understands that pets are never “just dogs.”
For everyone who carries memories wrapped in fur, joy, and unconditional love.
We hope you find warmth, laughter, and connection here.
This is LilTuki®.
This is legacy through art.
This is liltuki.com.