The heartfelt last words of Dan Haggerty and the heartbreaking decision to let his wife go

Dan Haggerty, best known for his role as Grizzly Adams, left this world as a beloved icon, remembered for his kindness, strength, and passion for life. His last words to his closest friend encapsulated a life of deep connections and enduring love.

Born in 1942 in Los Angeles, Dan Haggerty (originally Gene Jajonski) had a rebellious spirit. His parents hoped he would become a priest, but Dan had other plans. Early on, he discovered a love for animals and a knack for adventure. He worked on a ranch in the San Fernando Valley, training animals for movies—a skill that would define much of his career.

Haggerty also explored bodybuilding, which landed him work as a stuntman, set builder, and animal trainer for Walt Disney Studios. His rugged looks and experience with animals eventually led to his big break: playing James Capen “Grizzly” Adams in The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams.

The show, which aired from 1977 to 1978, became a hit, showcasing Haggerty’s natural connection with animals and his portrayal of a gentle, self-reliant woodsman. The role seemed tailor-made for him, and his fame skyrocketed.

Triumphs and trials

Behind the scenes, Haggerty’s life wasn’t always smooth. After Grizzly Adams ended, he faced personal and legal struggles, including a drug possession charge in 1984 and a near-fatal motorcycle accident. Despite these challenges, he sought redemption and worked hard to rebuild his life.

Haggerty also ventured into other fields, opening a leather shop and later a French-inspired restaurant called Haggerty’s Bistro. His passion for food led him to study at the prestigious Cordon Bleu School during a brief stint in France.

Personal tragedies

Haggerty’s personal life was marked by deep love and heartbreaking loss. He married Diane Rooker at just 17, and the couple had two daughters. They divorced in 1984, and that same year, he married Samantha Hilton, with whom he had three more children.

In 2008, tragedy struck when Samantha died after a motorcycle accident. The loss devastated Haggerty, who had to make the painful decision to take her off life support.

”It was the hardest, most heartbreaking decision I’ve ever had to make,” he later said.

In 2015, Haggerty was diagnosed with spinal cancer. Despite the grim prognosis, he remained courageous and continued working on several projects until his passing on January 15, 2016, at the age of 74.

In his final moments, surrounded by loved ones, he spoke words of love to his best friend, Terry Bomar: “I love you.”

A legacy of kindness

Dan Haggerty’s life was one of resilience, creativity, and connection. From his iconic role as Grizzly Adams to his vibrant presence in Hollywood, he touched countless lives. His friend Bomar described him best:

“He wasn’t a choirboy by any stretch of the imagination. He was a pirate! He would light up any room he walked into – he had infectious laughter.”

Dan Haggerty’s legacy as a man of warmth, humor, and strength lives on, a reminder of the power of kindness and authenticity.

Rest in peace, Grizzly Adams. Your spirit will forever roam the wilderness of our hearts.