HOUGH

LEE

Lee Hough, 74 of Pittsburgh, passed peacefully Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

She was predeceased by her parents, George and Irene Mancak of Pittsburgh.

Lee was well known across the United States for her love and expertise with the German Shepherd breed. Lee had a knack for knowing pedigrees, a skill she first developed with horses. She was sought out by people across the country and around the world for advice on particular dogs, and her recommendation for breeding options.

Lee built a prestigious breeding program under her kennel name "Von Wolfstraum." She had two very influential breeding females over the years. Csabre Von Wolfstraum was bred, raised and titled by Lee. Blanka von Spitzbubezwinger, aka "Basha" was imported from Belgium by Lee.

Csabre produced Naughty von Wolfstraum, aka "Copper"-14x IGP FH, 2019 Working Dog Championship 2nd place FH, and 4x FCI participant in the World Tracking Dog Championships in Europe from 2021-2024 under her owner Lindsey Zechar. Copper is the only dog from the US in the competition's 30-year history to pass the competition twice. She is still a working certified narcotics detection dog under Lindsey at ten years old.

Bianka (aka Basha) had a national level competitor from every litter she produced, whether in Belgium or the USA. Her daughter, Enni van Klipgaarden (aka Elsa from a breeding Lee did in Belgium) produced Archer von der Traumwolfen. Archer competed at the 2015 WUSV World Championships in Finland.

On her own, and in conjunction with Von der Traumwolfen, Lee was able to realize her goal of combining both female lines. Together with Traumwolfen, Lee produced Certified Drug Detection and Police K9's, Search and Rescue K9's, Schutzhund Titled dogs, therapy dogs, dogs titled in agility and AKC companion events, and many dogs as loved and treasured family members.

Lee was unique. She was intelligent, interesting and caring. Her recollection of people and circumstances was exceptional. She was genuine, straightforward and no nonsense. She would spend many hours on the phone with friends and current, past and potential dog owners. Lee knew much more than "just dogs" and was an excellent listener. She was a very loyal friend and a mentor to many. Her long conversations will be deeply missed within her circle of friends across the country. She will not be forgotten...

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.