Why is 2017 shaping up to be 2016 all over again? According to Variety, Stephen Furst, who got his big break in Animal House (1978), “passed away due to complications with diabetes.” He was 63 years old. He died at his home in Moorpark, California on Friday. His sons Nathan and Griff Furst alerted fans and loved ones to their father’s passing in a Facebook post:

“Steve has a long list of earthly accomplishments … but to his family and many dear friends he was also a beloved husband, father, and kind friend whose memory will always be a blessing.”

“To truly honor him, do not cry for the loss of Stephen Furst. Rather, enjoy memories of all the times he made you snicker, laugh, or even snort to your own embarrassment. He intensely believed that laugher is the best therapy, and he would want us to practice that now.”

Furst’s other accomplishments include Babylon 5 (1994; 1998), St. Elsewhere (1982-1988), and the National Lampoon ABC spinoff Delta House. He expanded his directing and acting skills after Babylon 5 with the feature film Baby Huey’s Great Easter Adventure (1999) and Magic Kid 2 (1994). He also provided character voices for popular children’s television and film, including the Buzz Lightyear of Star Command: The Adventure Begins (2000) television show and the Disney sequel The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea (2000).

Some of Furst’s other films include Everything’s Jake (2000), Road Rovers (1996), Freakazoid! (1995), and The Dream Team (1989).

Furst also donated time and money to the American Diabetes foundation. According to his website, all proceeds from his photo sales go to charity.

He was first diagnosed with diabetes in 1996 and dropped more than 85 pounds. 

Our hearts and prayers go out to Nathan, Griff, and Furst’s wife Lorraine.