Barbara Dille

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barbara M. Dille, on May 26, 2025, at the age of 92. She was born in White Plains, New York to Clifford and Hetty (McLachlan) May. A member of the White Plains High School class of 1950, Barbara went on to attend Westbrook College in Maine. In 1956, Barbara married Joe Dille at The First Baptist Church of White Plains. Barbara remained a proud and active member of the White Plains community until 2019, when she moved to Lutheran Community at Telford, PA to be closer to their son, Joseph.

Barbara was best known for being a professional dog trainer for most of her adult life. She founded her highly successful training school in 1974, offering group lessons in obedience and breed handling. She sold her business in 1996 to focus on private consultations and group classes for other training venues, including Port Chester Obedience Training Club, and the villages of Scarsdale and Pleasantville.

Barbara was a member of the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors and held professional membership status in the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. She served at various times as the president of the all-breed Saw Mill River Kennel Club, Inc., as well as having served as president of the Standard Schnauzer Club of America and the Knickerbocker Standard Schnauzer Club.

An accomplished author, Barbara had books published in the United States and Britain. She was very proud of writing "Standard Schnauzer, A Complete and Reliable Handbook." Over the years, her Standard Schnauzers have won many group placements, Specialty Best in Show and High in Trial awards. Barbara accepted many invitations to lecture on obedience and conformation across the United States, former Soviet Union, Brazil, Germany, and Australia. In addition, she occasionally served as an expert legal witness on canine behavior.

In her youth, Barbara's love of all animals was apparent. When she wasn't caring for her dogs, she was training horses or helping out the neighbors with their animals. In later years, Barbara enjoyed boating, tennis, lawn bowling, and playing Bridge.

Barbara is survived by her beloved daughter, Catherine Burdick and her husband, Bill; daughter-in-law Patti Dille, and granddaughter, Natalie.

Barbara was predeceased by her husband of 43 years, Joe; her son Joseph and her grandson Matthew.

It has been said that when pets pass, they cross the Rainbow Bridge. We are certain that Barbara is there also, helping them along the path that her own beloved canines had passed before. Tacki, Tonka, Tember, Desti, Tiger, and her beloved Tommy are once again by her side.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The AKC Canine Health Foundation in Barbara's honor and memory.