Julie Verrette, author of “In Gentler Valleys Roaming: A Memoir of Sled Dogs,” published last year by Northern Light Media, passed away on Saturday, May 23, surrounded by her family. For some time Julie had been facing Parkinson’s disease with strength, patience and grace, even as she penned the story of her life with retired racing huskies on her land near Florence, Wisconsin, where she built a sanctuary for rescued and retired sled dogs entrusted to her by some of the sport’s greatest mushers.

With a name inspired by the peaceful refuge in the song by the great Andy Williams, Summer Place Kennel provided a safe haven for retired sled dogs from some of the premier racers in the world, such as four-time Iditarod Champion Susan Butcher and Yukon Quest Champion Aliy Zirkle. They entrusted their beloved teammates to Julie’s care, beginning with a dog named Scuba from Susan Butcher, who landed in Wisconsin carrying a litter of puppies, born the day after Scuba arrived!

Julie’s initial goal was to simply live in the wilderness with dogs, but the retirees showed her another world, filled with fun and excitement and unexpected possibilities and limitless surprises: A life with sled dogs and all they bring to the table! There were hard times and difficulties, to be sure, but Julie had plenty of good friends and capable assistants who were willing to work and learn right along with her, and together they created a special place for the sled dogs and made Julie’s dreams come true.

A memorial service will be held at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 221 W B St., Iron Mountain, Mich., at 1 p.m. on June 19, 2026, preceded by visitation at 12 noon.

Memorials may be directed to the Iditarod Trail Committee or to Parkinson’s research. Online condolences may be left at www.gundersonfh.com.

Julie Verrette’s In Gentler Valleys Roaming: A Memoir of Sled Dogs is the inspiring and heartwarming story of one woman’s dedication to and work with retired sled dogs, and the life she and they built together in a beautiful Wisconsin valley.

“If I can be presumptuous enough to give advice, it would be to make your own passion come true. If my story can inspire even one person to realize their vision, whatever it is, and think ‘Julie saw what she wanted to do and she did it, and so can I,’ I would be thrilled!” ~Julie Verrette