🌈 Crossed the Rainbow Bridge on Wednesday, September 10, 2025

Auto Bannister passed away peacefully in the arms of his loving parents, David and Kally Bannister. He was adopted into their lives in 2018 at the age of two after being spotted on Petfinder. His profile picture made him look like a scrappy junkyard dog—and we knew instantly he’d fit right in. Little did we know how that decision would change our lives for the better, forever.

Auto is survived by his parents, David and Kally; his kitty siblings Sam, Josie, Jack, Zeus, Sunni, and Mowgli; his Grandma Sally Bannister; Uncle Jeff Thomas; dear friend Major; and countless other beloved friends and family. He was preceded in death by his Nana Annie Manning, Grandpa Greg Bannister, and his best friend Bob.

Though he may have looked like a junkyard dog, Auto was anything but mean. He took his job protecting the yard very seriously—barking at airplanes, clouds, and keeping a close eye on fire pits—but to everyone he met, he was a gentle soul. He loved “killing” squeakers in his toys, chewing on a good stick, chasing lasers, popping bubbles, stealing snacks, diving into the trash, chatting with the mail lady, getting pets from anyone with a free hand, making trips to Rural King, and going on car rides. Most of all, he just loved being involved. Auto never wanted to be anywhere but by our side—and by the sides of some of our closest friends. He never met a stranger.

Auto especially loved camping. Over the years, he went on more than 50 trips with his parents. Whether it was primitive tent camping or full-blown glamping, he was all in. He loved hiking, “poop walks,” playing in water, catching fallen crumbs from kids (and adults), laying next to the fire, snoozing on a rug, and getting to sleep in the camper bed—because, of course, it was a king-size bed. He soaked up every moment and every bit of attention from people passing by.

Through many life milestones, Auto was there for his mom and dad. He taught them what unconditional love truly looks like—and what it means to be completely present for someone you love.

In his final months, Auto bravely battled Intervertebral Disc Disease that affected his lower neck and eventually made it impossible for him to walk. While his passing leaves an unfillable space in our hearts, we take comfort in knowing that he is no longer in pain, and imagine him being joyfully welcomed by his Nana, Grandpa, Bob, and all the others who have passed on before him.

We’ll miss Auto every time we light a fire, drop food on the floor, see a plane in the sky that goes unbarked at, and in countless other quiet moments of daily life. Those reminders, though bittersweet, are a reflection of how deeply he was loved—and how much love he gave in return. We will carry him with us always.

Auto will be forever missed and forever remembered. In his honor, the family asks that you give your pups a little extra love today. He truly was the best dog there ever was.