Wiarton Willie the groundhog has died

[Catherine]

Our beloved Wiarton Willie, the Groundhog has died at the age of 13. That is much older than most groundhogs. Wiarton Willie has been predicting spring every February 2, Groundhog Day, for many years.  He will be missed, but fear not, there is a Wee  Willie in waiting who will be promoted to official Wiarton Willie status on Sept 30 right after Willie senior's memorial service.

https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2017...at-13.html

Clearly we take winter seriously in Canada. Anything that can make it seem shorter is a welcome relief. Celebrating Groundhog Day helps. Spring always seems closer after Groundhog Day. Of course Wiarton Willie often promised us an early spring. 
He didn't always deliver, but the promise did help us get through the rest of winter.