This is hard for me to write. Brian Barczyk — the founder of Utica’s The Reptarium — known to millions of his social media followers around the world for his exuberant passion for life and love of animals — has posted a final goodbye on his YouTube channel. I had the privilege of meeting him last fall to share his story as he was battling stage 4 pancreatic cancer. He was so positive and kind — truly a pleasure to be around. He was eager to let me hold a baby sloth along with several other extraordinary creatures — an opportunity I will always remember. But I will most cherish the time I spent talking with Brian. His gentle spirit will live on in his family, his Reptile Army, and his LegaSea Aquarium that will soon open. He will not be forgotten. Thinking about him and his loved ones right now. 🙏 #brianstrong #reptilearmy #legaseaaquarium #animallovers #pancreaticcancerawareness #rememberBrianBarczyk