TRAVERSE CITY, MI - Piper the photogenic border collie with personality to spare was quick to become a four-legged celebrity when he began working the runways at Cherry Capital Airport, chasing away wildlife that could endanger planes and passengers.

His popularity was boundless. He rubbed paws with the U.S. Coast Guard crews stationed there, posed for pictures with the Blue Angels who dropped by for Cherry Festival shows, had his own A.M.A. on Reddit, and even went skydiving.

But at the end of each day, he was happiest being hugged by his owner and handler, airport operations supervisor Brian Edwards.

Piper died Wednesday night, euthanized after a year-long battle with prostate cancer.

Edwards posted the heartbreaking message on Instagram:

"It is with the ultimate sadness I must report the passing of my best friend and love of my life.

"Piper passed away tonight peacefully in my arms after fighting a year-long battle with prostate cancer. He fought valiantly, and we did everything we could, but sometimes life just has to take its course."

Piper's final day was filled with love, fun, and even one last chase after a snowy owl, Edwards said.

A flag that had flown over U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City - where some of Piper's favorite people work - was presented to Edwards. It was later used to drape over Piper's body.