Emotional Day Moving Turtle Pond At The Zoo

About Brian Barczyk:

Brian Barczyk was a passionate wildlife enthusiast and vlogger who dedicated his life to sharing his extraordinary journey with animals on YouTube since May 10, 2016. His remarkable adventures led him to be part of TV network series, produce “Brian In The Wild” a documentary in South Africa, travel globally to encounter incredible animals and their advocates, initiate “Checking In” a podcast, establish “AnimalConUSA” a convention for animal content creators and their fans, and create The Reptarium - an interactive reptile zoo in Utica, Michigan, among many many other achievements.

In March 2023, Brian faced the greatest challenge of his life with a diagnosis of inoperable Pancreatic Cancer. His strength, courage, and the unyielding support of the incredible #ReptileArmy community inspired him to continue sharing his story and pursuing his dreams, even in the toughest times.

Brian's vision for the LegaSea Aquarium & The Reptarium, a symbol of resilience and the power of dreams, is now a legacy that his crew and family are devoted to bringing to life in his honor. As we break ground on this expanded facility just across the street from The Reptarium, we embrace this mission as a testament to Brian's indomitable spirit.

Join Brian's crew, family, and the #ReptileArmy in continuing this inspiring journey of discovery, conservation, and hope. As we vlog the LegaSea aquarium build, embark on adventures around the world, and deepen our connection with wildlife, we pay tribute to Brian's legacy. Together, we will forge a future where every encounter with the natural world is a moment to inspire, educate, and celebrate the extraordinary tapestry of life that Brian so loved.

#brianstrong

[ferrisulf]

"It's just another big moment he should be here for--and he's not." I wanted to reach through the screen and hug Lori. He would be so proud of all of you. You are all doing amazing.

[micheleholbert]

It’s a bittersweet moment Brian would have been so excited. I feel for you Lori Brian would be so proud of you. A shout out to the Jay and Kevin for helping keep the dream alive. It’s going to be spectacular.

[ericbeeman]

Brian may not be there in a physical form but I can gaurntee he's there jumping for joy all hyper excited right there with u during all this

[pattykochenower]

You really feel the emotion when Lori and Jay cry and miss Brian. I can’t believe how strong a person Lori is for continuing Brian’s dream after his passing . She never had really the time to mourn and grieve because she has so much to do and going on. She is an unbelievable strong, sweet, smart woman. Sending you hugs and so much Respect Lori !! Love you guys!! ❤💔💜
Also, huge thanks and appreciation to Kevin for doing such a great job with that forklift !

[merklingassoc]

Lori, Brian hasn't even been gone a year. The fact that you're even coping with this huge project weighing on your shoulders is remarkable. Brian is watching from above, he's seeing it all and rooting you all on. Lori, Brian's cheering the loudest for you. You continue to be his rock. Sending you, your children and repertorium family all my love and support. ❤❤❤🤗🤗🤗. I'm praying for healing, comfort and strength for you all. 🙏🙏🙏

[gatosmom]

I lost my mom to cancer in 2020, and now my dad has prostate cancer and will be starting his treatment this coming Thursday. There are times when it just hits me sideways and I start sobbing over nothing. People say it gets easier, but when you love someone so deeply, I don’t think it ever goes away. I’ll keep you in my prayers. God bless.

[chucksnbows]

Lori I don't even know you personally but we love you and stay strong. We are all with you guys.

[msvaleriah]

I love you guys. Please know that even if Brian isn't there standing at your side to witness this, he's still watching every minute and I'm sure he's glowing with pride and love for you. Hugs.

[carolmcwilliams]

We totally get it Lori.❤ It's still early days and even though I never met Brian, I still miss him xxxx

[minawa]

Oh Lori you crying for this mile stone and wishing Brian was there broke my heart. He would be so proud of you all continuing his legacy and he’s up there looking down and smiling. Be strong and he’s there with you all through this.

[clistiarobinson]

Bowsers enclosure is gorgeous, I can't wait to see him in it. Happy birthday tomorrow jay tomsky, I hope you have an awesome day. And crew yall are killing it everyday. I miss brian and wish he was still here but we will meet again one day and until then love you brian and the reptile army will make you proud

[sheainfinitypaints]

I lost my mom in 2015, my baby brother in 2019, and my dad in 2022. I understand what you're going through. Brian is my favorite YouTuber. I have an emotional support snake I bought from him. There's going to be a lot of hard days but you're doing him proud. Love to all of you from Tennessee.

[FamFam-sdrq]

May i just say Brian was the nicest YouTuber I have ever seen and he helped me in so many ways. When I watched the hospice video I cried so hard and I know he’s up there watching this place grow his dream is coming true but he can’t be here witch breaks me. I love you guys so much. We miss you Brian fly high🧸❤️❤️‍🩹♥️😢

[bkm]

Great job everyone, so exciting to see it all fitting into place. Couldn't help but tear up seeing Lori wishing Brian was next to her for these special moments. I know he is, just not the way it should be. Couldn't help but think Brian was hugging her saying you've always been the power behind the throne and you are bringing our dream to life😇 Great job babe! Thanks everyone for taking us along on this incredible journey, hope everyone has a Great Day!🐢🐠💕👍

[jonathangaetano]

Thank u guys for everything u do for us and the animals!! Thank u Lori for being a strong person to push the dream forward!!! Keep staying strong!

[christinamedina]

Was brought to tears…. Oh how much Brian is still missed…. There isn’t a better person that could have been left in charge of the LegaSea… Laurie is so strong. Seeing her cry… it gets me everytime… she lost her “person”. Just seeing her step in and take control…. So grateful for these vlogs. Thank you Jay and the entire crew for not quitting and allowing us to still be a part of everything. ❤❤❤

[TUFFSTUFF_]

You guys just don’t know how happy I get when I see your videos man!!! Just pure joy. Even though I didn’t know Brian I still feel each and every one of you.

[HeilwoodBeagles]

Best vlog in awhile. Jay is a natural! Reminded me of back in the day. Brian is smiling 😊 Lori is making him proud.

[davephillips]

Lori I'm so happy for you and your crew seeing everything coming together!!! It's in good hands with you running the show and Noah killing it running the videos and making his dad proud!!!

[Christinas_creatures]

We're crying with you Lori. It's not fair. Love to you all!