Beloved reptile Influencer Brian Barczyk died at the age of 54 following a long battle with stage-four pancreatic cancer.
His company, The Reptarium, confirmed the news, stating he had “touched innumerable hearts and minds globally.”
His website said that his ‘mission went far beyond a simple fascination with reptiles; he was a true advocate for sparking curiosity, respect, and understanding towards all facets of nature.”
“His unparalleled ability to nurture an appreciation for the animal kingdom was extraordinary. Brian’s enthusiasm wasn’t just contagious; it was transformative, turning fear into fascination and wonder.
“In mourning Brian Barczyk , we are also celebrating an extraordinary life. His invaluable contributions to herpetology, the lives he profoundly enriched, and the lasting positive impact he made on the world, will resonate for generations to come.”
Following the heartbreaking news that Brian has passed away, fans want to learn more about the late YouTuber and his family.
Brian Barczyk family –
Brian Barczyk’s family life involved a marriage of over 30 years to Lori, whom he met while studying biology at the University of Michigan.
Who is Brian Barczyk’s wife, Lori?
Brian Barczyk was married to Lori Barczyk for more than 30 years before his tragic death.
Lori Barczyk has over 38,000 followers on her Instagram page, @loribarczyk.
According to Thaiger, she helped her husband run The Reptarium.
Lori “efficiently handles the financial aspects, manages logistics, and oversees the daily operations of the business.”
She is also “deeply involved in animal care and breeding initiatives” at the zoo.
Per the outlet, she especially loves dogs and is interested in gardening, literature, culinary arts, and cinema.
Lori was also “a grounding force in Brian’s life, often providing a voice of caution against his adventurous streak.
According to Thaiger, Brian and Lori met while they were both studying biology at the University of Michigan.
The couple later wed in 1992 and continued to share an “unwavering” bond throughout their relationship.
Did Brian and Lori Barczyk have any children?
The couple has two children- a son named Noah and a daughter named Jade.
Noah, born in 1998, is a passionate animal lover with a popular YouTube channel and Instagram presence. He also enjoys traveling and exploring new places with his family and friends
Jade was born in 2002 and is a “dedicated student and dancer with a fondness for ballet, jazz, and contemporary styles.”
What type of cancer did Brian Barczyk have?
As People reported, the social media star was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March 2023.
On January 5, 2024, he posted a video to YouTube titled This Is Goodbye… in which he revealed that was entering hospice care.
“This last year has been difficult with my cancer and with the ups and downs of treatment and feeling sick,” said Brian.
“Unfortunately, you guys are not going to see me in the future because tomorrow, I go into hospice, which means I don’t have long to go after that.”
Per the outlet, he also shared that he wanted to be there for the opening of his LegaSea Aquarium, which is expected to take place in early 2024, but that no longer seemed able to happen.
“I’m not going to even be there to see it done now,” he said.
However, Brian told his followers not to worry about him.
“When I’m gone, I’m going to spend eternity in heaven to be able to look down on the [LegaSea] and I’m going to be able to look down on my family and everyone who I love. I’m the lucky one,” he continued.
In a statement shared with People on January 10, 2024, The Reptarium said Brian has “made an indelible impact by transforming fear into fascination.”
“Diagnosed with inoperable stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer less than a year ago, he has bravely shared his daily battle on his YouTube vlog, drawing his audience into not just his struggles, but also his unyielding passion for wildlife,” the zoo wrote.
“Brian’s life is guided by a simple yet powerful belief: ‘The only thing that matters, is being good to people.’ This philosophy was evident in everything he did – from his daily vlogs to his business ventures, each aimed at fostering a community of animal lovers and conservationists.
“His legacy will go on to serve as a testament to his love for wildlife, his innovative approach to education and engagement, and his commitment to changing perceptions about reptiles and other animals,” The Reptarium continued.
The statement also said that at the time, Brian was “currently at home, comfortable and surrounded by his loved ones.”
On January 15, 2024, the Reptarium team took to Instagram to share the news of Brian’s tragic death at the age of 54.
“On behalf of the Barczyk family and our entire team at The Reptarium, it is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Brian Barczyk,” the post began.
“More than the guiding light of our organization, Brian’s fervent passion for reptiles and wildlife, along with his steadfast dedication to education, has touched innumerable hearts and minds globally.
“Our deepest sympathies are with Brian’s family, his friends, and all those whose lives he has touched. We’ve lost an exceptional individual – a visionary, mentor, and friend. For those of us who had the privilege of working alongside him, Brian’s absence leaves an immeasurable void.
“As we navigate this difficult time, we find comfort in the memories and the lasting light of Brian’s work. He will be deeply missed but indeed, never forgotten,” it continued, in part.
A Public Memorial Walk in honor of Brian’s memory will take place on January 17, 2024, at Heritage Church in Sterling Heights, Michigan from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
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