Adolf Hitler loved dogs.
Inside of every havoc-creating, self-centered, self-destructive addict is a swell guy, very lovable.
I couldn't say anything better than Limb did above. You're making the right decision to legally and physically separate yourself and your children from the chaos. You can go on loving him if you want to......this is not a statement of his worth as a person, or a statement that you don't care. This is a legal proceeding that will protect you and your kids from the kind of instability that can ruin the rest of their lives.
But absolutely go on loving him. He's still a person. You just need to put you & your kids first, and him second.
Love you first. You are doing the right thing, and I think you know it. But, as a friend once said, "the closer you get to the gates, the louder the lions roar" ---- your mind is throwing up all kinds of chaos right now.
You will be okay, frog.